Division by zero

Abstract

In the teaching of elementary arithmetic we introduce the students to 100 addition facts, 100 subtraction facts, and 100 multiplication facts. When it comes to division, however, most teachers and books present or discuss only 90 basic facts. Many children will not think to question this nonsymmetric arrangement, but what about those who do? What explanation can we give the alert and inquisitive child who wants to know why we have omitted 10 division facts from our list?