Learn the idea
Multiplication helps you count several groups of the same size. The number of groups and the number in each group are the two factors. Their product is the total.
- Count the groups.
- Count how many objects are in each group.
- Multiply the two counts, or add the group size repeatedly.
LET’S WORK IT OUT
Worked example
Four trays each hold 3 seedlings. How many seedlings are there?
4 × 3 = 12 seedlings
There are four equal groups of three: 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 = 12.
A mistake to watch for
Adding the two factors gives 4 + 3 = 7, which does not count all the objects.
YOUR TURN
Try three practice questions
Enter your answer, then check the explanation. You can also open each explanation to study it. These three questions check understanding; they are not a mastery score.
Question 1
Five boxes each hold 2 crayons. How many crayons?
Answer and explanation
10 — Five groups of two give 2 + 2 + 2 + 2 + 2 = 10.
Question 2
Three baskets each hold 4 apples. How many apples?
Answer and explanation
12 — Three groups of four give 3 × 4 = 12.
Question 3
Six groups each contain 3 buttons. How many buttons?
Answer and explanation
18 — Six equal groups of three give 6 × 3 = 18.
For parents and teachers
Ask your learner to point to each group and explain what each factor means.
Ask your learner to explain the method before moving on. This lesson covers one focused skill and is not a complete curriculum assessment.