October 23-27

 Learning Intentions

I can multiply and divide up to 3-digit natural or decimal numbers by 2 digit natural numbers and represent products and quotients using a decimal number (Math)

In math, students have been working hard to practice their multiplication and division skills with larger numbers. It is much easier to become fluent with computational skills if students have a solid foundation of their basic multiplication facts to 12. We are continuing to practice these facts through our multiplication folders where each student has the opportunity to work on the times tables they have not yet mastered. Ask your child which fact they are currently working on! We have encouraged them to ask their parents to quiz them on their facts in the car, while tidying up after dinner, etc. to help with their memorization. 

These are "Four Square Models" used for helping to practice multiplication facts. In grade six, we use these along with flash cards and practice word problems to develop automaticity with our basic facts. Having strong automaticity of basic facts helps with many concepts in the grade six curriculum.

Long division can be quite tricky because there are so many steps and it takes time for students to understand the "whys" for the steps. We are so lucky to have Madaam Veltkamp join us during our math instruction so we are able to divide the students into three groups based on their comfort level with multiplication and division of larger numbers. In each group, students have opportunities to learn with the teacher, practice with peers, and are beginning to apply their understanding to more complex questions. We have been encouraging all students to take responsibility for their learning and come ask one of the teachers for support if there is something they need a bit more support with. We are so proud of their hard work and engagement in math!

When we learn new concepts, we often practice using our mini whiteboards.

Students can choose from different standard algorithms when learning how to divide larger numbers. The student on the left is using long division and the student on the right is using the tower method. Ask your child which method they are most comfortable with. 

These word problems range from basic division to more complex questions that require students to think through the problem, and complete steps before dividing. 

Providing students with grids to line up their long division is often a helpful strategy

A little group practice. When students want to practice their division skills, they can generate their own questions by rolling dice or pulling cards.