How to Teach Simple Division Using Montessori Golden Beads

Golden beads are a great way to demonstrate how physical quantities interact with each other.

Math operations are much easier to understand when a child can watch the operation occur instead of simply observing an instructor write numbers in lines on a sheet of paper or a blackboard. Montessori golden beads are a great way to introduce children as young as five to the concept of division without ever intimidating them by formally addressing the issue. This introductory group lesson is a fun way to incorporate children into the division process.

Things You'll Need

• Golden beads
• Large number cards
• Small number cards
• Large green mat
• Felt lined trays

Instructions

1. Select a number that will not require any exchanging. Make it as simple as possible. For example, if you are working with three children, then you might use 3,396. This number should be constructed with the large number cards and golden bead material, and placed in a central location toward the top of the mat where it can easily be seen. In this case, you would use three thousand cubes, three hundred squares, nine ten bars and six unit beads.

2. Say to the children, "I have 3,396. I am going to divide it between three children so that everyone gets the same amount."

3. Distribute a tray to each child. This will hold their portion of the divided golden beads.

4. Divide up the numbers, starting with the largest, and explaining as you go. In this example, the instructor will say, "I will start with the thousand cubes. I am giving each of you a thousand cube. You each have a thousand and you each have the same," while putting the cubes in each child's tray. Next she would repeat the process with the hundred squares (one to each child), the ten bars (three to each child), and the unit beads (two to each child). Each time, the instructor should point out how many she has given to each child, and that everyone has the same.

5. Have the children count their individual golden beads and assign the appropriate small number cards to their felt trays. In this example, they should each end up with 1,132.

6. Place the small cards from one of the trays over the large cards of the original number. As you do so, say "You each have the same number. You each have ____ (in this case, 1,132)." The smaller numbers placed over the larger one form the quotient. You can identify it at this time if you wish.

7. Recap what just happened. Your summary should emphasize that the division worked out evenly to leave room for teaching remainders later. You should say something like this: "I had 3,396. I divided it between three children. They each got 1,132. There was nothing left." More problems can be worked in this manner as long as the group remains focused and attentive.

Tips & Warnings

• Generally, this type of group work gets the best resuts when there are three or fewer children. Not only do you have a few more numbers to work with, but there are enough materials to let everyone be in charge of something when it comes time to clean up.