What are divisibility rules?
Divisibility rules in math are shortcuts to quickly check if one whole number can be evenly divided by another. They save time by avoiding lengthy division calculations involved in methods like long division.
Why divisibility rules matter
I tend to introduce divisibility rules from 4th Grade onwards and like many elements of math it takes practice and repetition. However, I find there are many benefits to teaching this skill, here are just a few:
- Improved Mental Math. They provide efficient shortcuts for mental math calculations. Students can quickly assess whether a number is divisible by another.
- Foundation for more advanced math concepts. Understanding divisibility rules lays a solid foundation for more advanced mathematical concepts such as prime factorization, and simplifying fractions.
- Enhanced Number Sense. Learning divisibility rules brings a strengthened sense of numbers by students. They become more able to spot the patterns and relationships between integers.
- Time-Saving for Educators. For teachers, divisibility rules are helpful because they save time. It empowers students to independently assess divisibility without guidance from their teacher.
- Confidence Building. As students become adept at assessing if numbers are divisible, they feel more confident about their math skills which in turn creates a more positive attitude towards math overall.
- Versatility Across Grades. They are versatile, and applicable across various grade levels. Whether introduced in elementary school for basic arithmetic or later for more complex mathematical concepts, these rules remain a fundamental and adaptable tool in your mathematical toolkit.
- Preparation for Standardized Tests: Division is part of standardized exams. Familiarity with these rules equips students with a valuable skillset for tackling test questions efficiently.
FREE Divisibility Rules Poster and Bookmarks
If you are on the lookout for a fantastic resource to enhance your upper elementary students’ then look no further! As an upper elementary and middle school teacher, I’m thrilled to share a fantastic freebie designed to help your students build fluency when dividing large numbers.
I’ve designed an eye-catching poster and set of bookmarks. Whether you place them in a notebook, binder or enlarged for a math word wall, these are a valuable addition to your math toolkit and are useful all year round. CLICK HERE to grab this FREE resource for your classroom.
The poster contains rules 2 through 10 with a color coded example given by each to ensure students get a clear understanding of how the rule works and to reduce misapplication.
Students can benefit from these handy quick reference divisibility rules bookmarks. Whether used during classwork, homework, or independent study, these bookmarks are a practical aid to build fluency in division. Plus, they encourage a sense of ownership over their learning journey. Just print out as many copies of the bookmarks as you need, laminate and place on student desks.
If you’d like to see more of my high quality division resources, please visit my shop and check out my blog for more articles related to division such as the ones listed below.
How to teach long division to upper elementary
