- Definition
To decompose something means to break it down into smaller, simpler pieces. For example, you can break a big shape into smaller shapes.
A rectangle can be decomposed into two squares placed side-by-side.
How to teach this in 30 seconds
Try this analogy: Decomposing is like taking apart a tower of building blocks to see all the little blocks it was made from.
Ask your child: What smaller shapes can you find inside this big one?
Common mix-up: Kids may think decomposing just means breaking something. The key is to see the whole as being made of smaller, recognizable shapes or numbers.
Examples
- Decomposing the number 5 into a group of 2 and a group of 3.
- Seeing that a hexagon shape is made of six small triangles.
decompose is a term used in Ontario’s Kindergarten to Grade 8 curriculum.
Where this shows up
The descriptions on this page are SmartStudy’s own original, plain-language writing — not the Ministry’s wording. They are aligned to the Ontario Curriculum, © King’s Printer for Ontario. For the Ministry’s official wording, see the source link below. SmartStudy is an independent service and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by the Government of Ontario or the Ministry of Education. Ontario Curriculum and Resources ↗
