A Simple Way to Teach Dividing by Zero
Abstract math problems may be difficult to visualize for some students. This becomes especially true when the concept seems particularly abstract; as is the case with dividing one numberal by zero. Because dividing by zero is "undefined" rather than yielding a numerical answer, some students struggle to relate the concept to anything tangible. With visual aids and a little patience, you can help explain these concepts.
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Instructions
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Prepare the Board
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Divide a chalkboard or whiteboard into four sections.
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At the top of each section, depict four of the same thing. For example, draw a basket containing four apples in each of the four sections.
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Below the first basket of four apples, depict four empty baskets.
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Below the second basket of apples, draw two empty baskets.
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Below the third basket of four apples, depict one empty basket.
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Leave the space below the fourth basket blank.
Conduct the Lesson
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Beginning with the first basket, ask your student(s) to tell you how many apples would be in each basket if they were evenly distributed from the basket of four apples.
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For the first basket, the shares would be one apple to each empty basket.
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For the second basket, the shares would be two apples to each empty basket.
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For the third basket, the share would be four apples to the empty basket.
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For the fourth basket, the shares would be undefined because there are no baskets to put the apples in.
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Tips & Warnings
This method can also be used to teach division that results in a fraction. For example, four apples divided among eight baskets would result in half of an apple in each basket.
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
