Multiplication and division - Divide by 8 - Planning

In an engaging lesson tailored for Year 3 students, the concept of dividing by 8 is introduced, combining both theoretical and practical approaches. The lesson encourages the development of mathematical fluency by starting with oral counting in multiples of 4 and 8. Children are invited to use counters and other concrete resources to visually represent division problems, enhancing their understanding of the process through sharing and grouping. Key vocabulary such as 'equal', 'division', 'dividend', 'divisor', 'quotient', 'array', and 'bar model' underpin the lesson, providing students with the language necessary to articulate their mathematical reasoning. Independent learning is facilitated through worksheets, while the plenary session consolidates the day's learning, ensuring that any misconceptions, especially regarding quotative and partitive division, are addressed.

Throughout the lesson, children are encouraged to use 'stem sentences' to describe their mathematical processes, reinforcing their comprehension of division as they translate concrete examples into written calculations. Activities are designed to deepen understanding by connecting multiplication facts to division, allowing students to realise the inverse relationship between the two operations. Challenges and reasoning activities further this goal, prompting partner work that fosters rich mathematical dialogue. Differentiation is embedded within the lesson, with tasks tailored to support children working towards expected levels, as well as those ready for greater depth, who tackle two-step division problems. The lesson concludes with a reflective 'Give me five' exercise, prompting students to consider what they've learned, the skills they've used, and what they found challenging, ensuring they leave with a firm grasp of how to divide by 8.