Multiplication facts and Strategies
Multiplication is a faster way to add the same number many times. When we multiply, we're finding the total when we have equal groups of things.
Multiplication means we are combining equal groups. The multiplication sign looks like this: ×
Basic Multiplication Facts
In 3rd grade, we learn the multiplication facts from 0 to 10. These are the building blocks for all multiplication!
For example:
- 2 × 3 = 6
- 5 × 4 = 20
- 7 × 8 = 56
Helpful Multiplication Strategies
1. Skip Counting
Skip counting means counting by a number. It's like taking number jumps!
To find 4 × 3:
Count by 3s four times: 3, 6, 9, 12
So 4 × 3 = 12
2. Arrays
An array is a way to arrange objects in equal rows and columns, like eggs in a carton.
This array shows 3 × 4:
3 rows with 4 dots in each row = 12 dots total
So 3 × 4 = 12
3. Repeated Addition
Multiplication is like adding the same number over and over.
5 × 3 means 5 groups of 3
5 × 3 = 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 = 15
4. Commutative Property
The commutative property means that you can switch the order of the numbers when you multiply, and you'll still get the same answer.
4 × 6 = 24
6 × 4 = 24
The order doesn't matter - you get the same answer!
Special Multiplication Rules
Multiplying by 0: Any number times 0 equals 0.
Example: 7 × 0 = 0
Multiplying by 1: Any number times 1 equals that number.
Example: 9 × 1 = 9
Multiplying by 2: Double the number.
Example: 5 × 2 = 10
Multiplying by 5: Count by 5s.
Example: 4 × 5 = 20
Multiplying by 10: Add a zero to the number.
Example: 6 × 10 = 60
Learning your multiplication facts will help you solve many math problems faster. Practice a little bit every day, and soon you'll know them all!