We
are starting our multiplication and division unit this week. By the end of the unit, students will be
expected to multiply 2 digit numbers by 2 digit numbers (e.g., 46x82) and
divide 3 digit numbers by 1 digit (355/5) using a variety of strategies, and
use the concepts to solve problems.
By now, students should be able to recall
multiplication facts up to 9x9. Knowing the facts
will allow students to focus on the application of multiplication and solving
problems (vs. doing the multiplying). It
is also essential that students know the basic facts before trying to do 2
digit multiplication.
In
class, we have discussed various strategies/tricks/tips to help us remember our
multiplication facts. Here is a link to
the “finger method” that we discussed to help us with 6-9’s.
Students
can also use skip counting/repeated addition to help them multiply. Ideally, students should have them memorized
so that they can recall the facts automatically. Knowing multiplication facts will also help
students divide when we get to that part of the unit.
Here
are a few online practice games/websites that will provide some extra practice:
