Aftermaths: Sharing, Grouping, and Getting It Wrong (Why Division Trips Us Up)

This week’s Aftermaths dives deep into one of the trickiest topics in the primary maths curriculum — division. Why do so many pupils (and teachers) find it difficult? Jon and Becky unpack the cognitive, linguistic and conceptual challenges behind division and explore what teachers can do to make it more meaningful.They also reflect on the Curriculum and Assessment Review and Twinkl’s new Curriculum & Assessment Review Hub, which summarises the 197-page report (plus appendices!) and the Government’s response for every subject — including a must-read summary for maths.👉 Explore the Curriculum and Assessment Review HubLater in the episode, Becky’s Maths of Life takes a theatre-themed turn, revealing how ticket discounts and Halloween offers show why calculators aren’t the answer to every maths problem. And Jon reflects on why conceptual understanding beats procedural fluency — especially when pupils (and adults) reach for technology to “do the maths” for them.They also look back on the EYFS Maths episode with Michelle Windridge, discussing the lessons older year groups could learn from play-based, curiosity-driven learning in Reception. From “joyful chaos” to task design and continuous provision, they highlight why EYFS maths is anything but easy — and why it matters more than ever.🔑 Key TopicsThe Curriculum and Assessment Review: implications for the new curriculum landing by September 2028Why division is conceptually harder than addition, subtraction, or multiplicationUnderstanding the difference between partitive (sharing) and quotative (grouping) divisionHow inconsistent mathematical language (divide by, goes into, shared between) confuses pupilsThe role of times tables fluency in supporting divisionHow subject knowledge and models & representations impact teaching successRemainders, flexibility, and efficient written or mental methodsDivision as a gateway to fractions, ratio, and algebraic thinkingThe misconception that calculators replace understandingLessons from EYFS maths and what KS1–2 can learn from early conceptual play💬 Questions for ListenersWhat’s the biggest barrier to children mastering division in your classroom?How do you define success in division — getting the answer right, or understanding the process?Are your pupils more confident with sharing or grouping models?Get in touch at [email protected]🧠 Maths of LifeBecky reflects on the maths behind ticket discounts and why a calculator can’t replace mathematical reasoning. From Halloween theatre offers to shopping deals, it’s a real-life reminder that fluency isn’t just speed — it’s knowing what calculation to do, and why.🪜 Related EpisodesEYFS Maths with Michelle Windridge – Episode 27Curriculum and Assessment Review: Emergency EpisodeAI and Maths Education with Simon Bond – Episode 25