Math: Long Division (Talking)

Long division is among the most notorious topics in school mathematics. However, it is also one of the most fruitful topics that allow children to have fun with mathematical thinking, if it is explored in a meaningful way. It combines addition, subtraction, multiplication, and, of course, division in a network of number senses. The key is balancing the procedures and the concepts behind the long process and allowing children to talk about the ideas and the patterns. Once children learned to enjoy the art and joy of long division, they may have a better experience with the mathematics that follow. And, yes, they should be allowed to use calculators for quick solutions later on. This app was inspired by two seven-year-olds I worked with about long division in late 2016. They enjoyed the art of long division and kept asking for more problems and sharing the patterns they discovered. Importantly, long division should not be forced on school children; but it can be a pleasurable experience for them to play with mathematics. There are, of course, other variations of the long division format.