|
Correct Answer: check the divisor to see if it has a decimal.
when teaching students how to compute a division problem, the initial step they should take is to check the divisor for any decimals. this step is crucial because the presence of a decimal in the divisor can change the approach to the division process.
if the divisor does not contain a decimal, the division can proceed in the standard manner. this involves dividing the dividend by the divisor directly without any further adjustments. the simplicity of this step ensures that students can quickly apply basic division rules without the need for additional calculations.
however, if the divisor does have a decimal, additional steps are required to simplify the calculation. the first action in this scenario is to move the decimal point in the divisor all the way to the right until it becomes a whole number. this might involve shifting the decimal several places to the right, depending on how many digits are after the decimal.
correspondingly, the decimal in the dividend must be moved the same number of places to the right as was moved in the divisor. this alignment ensures that the division is carried out correctly, maintaining the balance of the equation. by converting both the divisor and the dividend into whole numbers, or at least aligning their decimals, the division process becomes straightforward, mirroring the procedure used for dividing whole numbers.
finally, once the adjustments are made, the division can be conducted as usual. the result should then be checked for accuracy, and any decimal in the answer should be correctly placed to reflect the movements made during the setup process. this method not only helps in getting the correct answer but also aids in reinforcing the students' understanding of the relationship between decimals and division.
|
