The Zero-Canceling Trick
Did you know dividing numbers with zeroes at the end can be super easy?
When both numbers in a division problem end with zeroes, you can cancel out the same number of zeros from both numbers before dividing! This makes the problem much simpler to solve.
How to Divide Numbers Ending in Zeroes
1️⃣ Count the zeros at the end of both numbers
2️⃣ Cancel the same number of zeros from both
3️⃣ Divide the remaining numbers
Let's Practice Together!
Example 1: 4,500 ÷ 90
Step 1: Both numbers end with zeros (500 and 90)
Step 2: Cancel one zero from both: 4,500 ÷ 90 = 450 ÷ 9
Step 3: Now divide 450 ÷ 9 = ?
450 ÷ 9 = 50
So, 4,500 ÷ 90 = 50
Example 2: 72,000 ÷ 800
Step 1: Both numbers end with zeros (000 and 00)
Step 2: Cancel two zeros from both: 72,000 ÷ 800 = 720 ÷ 8
Step 3: Now divide 720 ÷ 8 = ?
720 ÷ 8 = 90
So, 72,000 ÷ 800 = 90
Parent Tips 🌟
- Real-world practice: Use prices at the store ("If 10 toys cost $200, how much is one toy?") to practice dividing numbers with zeroes.
- Zero-canceling game: Make flashcards with division problems ending in zeroes and race to see who can cancel zeros and solve fastest.
- Check with multiplication: After solving, have your child multiply their answer by the divisor to check if they get the original dividend.