Math Strategy: Splitting

What does the math strategy Splitting mean?

Math Strategy: Splitting
Math strand: Number Sense and Numeration





Overview:
Splitting is a strategy where numbers in an equation are broken apart into their place value to make calculations easier. This involves, for example, combining 25 objects and 37 objects by breaking apart both numbers into their tens and ones, combining the tens, combining the ones, and finally combining the total of the tens with the totals of the ones.



The splitting strategy for subtraction can difficult for some and may be written in different ways.

In this example, the student splits both numbers into place value, subtracts 30 from 60, adds on 2, then subtracts the final 7



In the second example, the student splits the number being subtracted into place value, subtracts 30, then subtracts the final 7



How this supports student learning:
Students that use this strategy are developing many of the key ideas in mathematics, such as place value, part-whole relationships and commutative property. They understand that the position of a digit determines its value. As well as knowing that breaking up the numbers and moving them around still results in the same sum. Experience with making models of two-digit numbers using base ten blocks supports students use of this strategy. When students can combine their computational strategies with an understanding of base ten grouping, they develop very efficient ways of using their understanding to mentally calculate operations.

Where to next?
Splitting mini-lessons such as Splitting Sequences can be found in the Teacher’s Math Kit, specifically on page 202 in the text “What to Look For” by Alex Lawson.

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