Long Division Tube: Plastic (10)
Made by Nienhuis Montessori · shipped by Heutink International (Netherlands) About the maker
For hands-on mathematics, this set of 10 clear test tubes serves as a hands-on material for introducing division concepts to young learners. Children use the tubes as containers to physically divide quantities of small objects like beads or beans, making abstract mathematical concepts concrete and visible. The transparent design allows children to see and compare divided quantities, supporting the Montessori principle of learning through manipulation and observation.
“Free the child's potential, and you will transform him into the world.”
The Long Division Tubes transform abstract division into a tangible experience where children physically distribute objects among ten transparent containers. Each plastic tube becomes a concrete representation of equal grouping, allowing children to see division as fair sharing rather than abstract computation.
- Understanding division as equal distribution through physical sharing
- Recognizing remainders when quantities cannot be divided evenly
- Developing one-to-one correspondence through systematic distribution
- Building decimal system awareness by working with sets of ten
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The transparency of these tubes reveals the mathematical process as it happens - children watch quantities decrease in their source pile while seeing equal amounts accumulate in each tube. This visible redistribution through the Long Division Tubes addresses the young child's need to understand mathematical relationships through physical manipulation. The set of ten tubes specifically prepares children for our decimal system, as they experience dividing by numbers from one to ten using the same consistent containers. By pouring beads or beans into these tubes one at a time, children discover remainders naturally when objects cannot be distributed equally, making division's complexities accessible through direct sensorial experience.
How to present it
Follow the Montessori method of presentation for optimal child development.
Place tubes in a wooden holder or arrange in a line. Provide a bowl with 20-30 counting objects (beads, beans, or small stones). Have a small tray for remainders.
- 1
Introduce dividing 12 objects among 3 tubes by distributing one object to each tube in rotation
Count aloud: 'One for this tube, one for this tube, one for this tube' to establish rhythm - 2
Continue distribution until all objects are placed, checking each tube has equal amounts
Let children discover the pattern rather than explaining it beforehand - 3
Count objects in each tube to verify equal distribution: 'Each tube has 4 objects'
Use consistent language: 'divided equally' rather than mathematical jargon - 4
Try 13 objects among 3 tubes, discovering one remainder
Place the remainder on the special tray, making the concept visible
Every Child Is a Little Creator
Heritage
Since 1929
In classrooms
Around the world
European brands
Nienhuis, GAM, Educo
Long Division Tube: Plastic (10)
