Long division is tough for students and teachers. These 5 easy and practical strategies make differentiated long-division instruction less scary and more fun.
Teaching long division can be difficult in a classroom filled with kids who all learn at different paces. Some students may grasp the concept quickly, while others might need more time and extra support.
As teachers, we know we need to differentiate our instruction to meet the needs of every single student. That can feel challenging and overwhelming, but it’s doable.
With the right strategies, you can differentiate and scaffold your instruction while supporting all of your students.
Here are 5 strategies for differentiating long-division:
1. Use Graph Paper Grids
Graph paper grids can be a game-changer when teaching long division. They provide students with a visual aid to keep their digits and place values organized and lined up neatly. You can use your own blank graph paper or grab some pre-made worksheets from my shop at TPT.
2. Offer Differentiated and Varied Practice Sheets
Make long division less intimidating by using a shape-and-color organizer that breaks the standard algorithm into clear, manageable steps.
The graphic organizer gives students a visual guide for what to do next – and helps keep their digits lined up so mistakes don’t pile up. Plus, the differentiated practice pages make it easy to scaffold and meet students right where they are.
Check out the Shaped Math long division resources at my Teachers Pay Teachers shop.
3. Small Group Instruction
Small groups make it easier to give students the support they really need. You can group them by skill level and focus on targeted strategies that match where they are. It’s a great way to slow things down, clear up confusion, and build confidence with students who need a little extra help.
4. Use Visual Aids to Support Independence
In addition to hands-on tools, visual aids like anchor charts, step-by-step guides, and reference posters can make a big difference – especially for students who need help remembering the long division steps. Having a clear visual to refer to helps them stay on track and work more confidently.
Small reference posters or bookmarks are great for student binders or math folders. They allow kids to work independently without having to ask, “What do I do next?” every five minutes.
⮕ Need some ready-to-go visuals? Check out the student-friendly reference posters in my TPT shop.
5. Make Practice (Almost) Fun
Let’s be honest – long division isn’t exactly a crowd favorite. But with the right activities, you can make practice feel less like a chore.
Games, color-by-number pages, task cards, puzzles, escape rooms, and math mazes are all great options to mix things up. These kinds of activities keep students engaged, build confidence, and help the steps start to click – without the eye rolls.
Honorable Mention – Add a Little Tech
Some kids focus better with a screen in front of them — so use that to your advantage!
Interactive websites, digital manipulatives, quick video tutorials, and apps like Prodigy or Mathletics can reinforce long division in a more dynamic, student-friendly way. It’s a great option for review, extra practice, or reaching students who need something a little different to stay focused.
Wrapping It Up
Long division can definitely feel like a tough mountain to climb – but with the right strategies and a little support, every student can reach the top. Using visual aids, small groups, scaffolded practice, and a few fun twists along the way makes a big difference. With time and targeted instruction, long division can click – even for your most reluctant learners.
Written by Jules Rhee; Published December 7, 2023; Updated September 11, 2025.