This chapter will introduce multiplication facts and different strategies used to solve for the product (answer). Students will learn the Zero Property of Multiplication (anything times 0, is 0), and the Identity Property of Multiplication (anything times 1, is the other number).
- Arrays: Circle or square counters arranged in rows & columns, in order to visually show multiplication (graphically).
- Repeated Addition: Repeatedly adding the same number to itself. Example: 4 X 5 is the same as 4 + 4 + 4 + 4 + 4.
- Equal Groups: ___ groups of ___ means multiply. All the groups have the same amount of counters in each circle. **We also call these "Bagel Bites" or "Chocolate Chip Cookies".
- Number Line: Draw skips on a number line to show multiplication (by skip counting to find the answer).
- Bar Models: Draw a picture to solve the problem, using a long rectangle divided into equal parts.
- Fact Families: Multiplication and division are inverse operations, shown by related facts. Example: 3 X 4 = 12, 4 X 3 = 12, 12 / 3 = 4, and 12 / 4 = 3. **Use the Commutative Property of Multiplication! :)