- One critical area for third grade mathematics is to develop an understanding of multiplication and division and strategies for multiplication and division within 100.
- Developing an understanding of the meanings of multiplication and division of whole numbers through activities and problems involving equal-sized groups, arrays, and area models will help foster a conceptual understanding of multiplication and division.
- Conceptual understanding will help our students with long term understanding, manipulation of of numbers, making connections, extending their understanding...
As we develop this conceptual understanding, we experienced division through a story called "The Doorbell Rang" by Pat Hutchins. The basic idea is that the mom has made 12 cookies. Her children divide them equally. (12 cookies divided between 2 kids equals 6 cookies each). Next, 2 neighbors arrive to divide the 12 cookies among 4 children. How many cookies each?