Repeated subtraction represents division by removing equal groups of the divisor from a dividend; the number of complete subtractions is the quotient, and any amount left is the remainder, which must be less than the divisor. A number line or equal-groups model makes clear that division asks how many groups fit or how many are in each group, and connects to multiplication as an inverse operation. The scope is whole-number dividends within 100 and one-digit divisors, not larger-number algorithms or generalized division.
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Detailed Explanation: Use repeated subtraction to divide
Repeated subtraction means taking away equal groups of the divisor until you cannot take away another complete group.
Example: Find .
The divisor is , so subtract groups of from :
That is 1 group of .
That is 2 groups of .
That is 3 groups of .
That is 4 groups of .
Now is left. We cannot subtract another because is less than .
So, has 4 complete groups of , with 1 left over:
The quotient is , and the remainder is . Check that the remainder is less than the divisor: .
Learn by doing: Use repeated subtraction to divide
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Division as Fraction - With Remainder 2 x 1
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Download/Modify Free Grade 3 'Use repeated subtraction to divide' Worksheet
Print this free 'Use repeated subtraction to divide' worksheet to practice this skill away from the computer. Click 'Modify' to easily customize this worksheet to your exact needs.
This Worksheet Includes:
- Division as Fraction - With Remainder 2 x 1
- Division Equation - With Remainder 2 x 1
- Division Cards Model - Deck and Player Count to Hand Size - With Remainder (1 Digit)
- Division Cards Model - Deck and Hand Size to Player Count - No Remainder (1 Digit)
- Division Cards Model - Deck and Hand Size to Player Count - No Remainder (2 Digit)
- Long Division - No Remainder 2 x 1
- Division Car Model - Total and Car Count to Per Car - No Remainder (1 Digit)
- Division Car Model - Total and Car Count to Remainder (1 Digit)
Units Teaching This Skill
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