A P R I L 6 , 2 0 2 0 | V O L . 2

Focus: Multi-digit multiplication

This week's focus requires students to use their understanding of place value to solvemulti-digit multiplication problems. Over the course of the year, students have learned avariety of strategies such as arrays, the area model, and ratio tables. Using arrays andratio tables helps students see why different strategies, including the standard algorithm,work.

Students are expected to be able to use standard algorithm for multiplication by the endof grade 5. The standard algorithm is a reliable, efficient, and elegant way to multiplymulti-digit numbers. It also works every time, no matter what pair of numbers you'remultiplying, as long as it is performed correctly. Problems arise when students attempt touse the algorithm without having mastered the basic multiplication facts, when theydon't understand why the algorithm works, and when they forget the steps. The workstudents do in grade 4 helps them avoid these potential pitfalls.

DISTANCE CLASSROOMCHRONICLES

A PARENT EDUCATION NEWSLETTER TO HELPEXPLAIN THE WHAT, WHY AND HOW OF YOUR

CHILD'S MATH LEVEL

Array 

Using the array helps students see that 7 x 10 = 70or 7 tens. These models illustrate the place value

shifts that occur when multiplying by powers of 10.

Cheers

Ratio TablesStudents working with ratio tablesuse what they know to calculate

products they don't know.

Area ModelThe area model makes visible partial products that are an important part of the standard algorithm. 

StandardAlgorithm