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Saturday, October 15, 2016

Math Time

We have spent the past 7 weeks working on becoming fluent in multiplication!  They have learned how to use repeated addition, make arrays, skip count on a number line, make equal groups, and use properties of multiplication (Commutative, Distributive, & Associative).  Students are working with square tiles to help them make arrays to solve problems.  In the pictures below, they are using square tiles to make arrays to help them solve for an unknown factor in an equation.  




This concept can be taught at home, using any small objects (buttons, coins, cereal, etc.)  Any object that can be easily used to make straight rows and columns, can be used.  Students know that in multiplication, the first factor is the number of groups (rows) and the second factor is the number in each group.  So, if the equation was 6 x 4, students should have 6 rows (each row is a group), with 4 objects in that row (group).  If they line up their array straight, then they should easily be able to find the product.  In this case, the product would be 24.  

If you do not have objects at home for your child to use, they can always use this same concept by drawing arrays on a sheet of paper. The process is still the same.