Multiplication is a quick way to add equal groups. 4 bags with 6 apples in each is 6 + 6 + 6 + 6, which we write as 4 × 6 = 24. The first number is how many groups and the second is how many in each group.
An array shows the groups as rows. 4 rows of 6 dots make 24 dots. If you turn the array on its side you get 6 rows of 4, which is still 24. So 4 × 6 and 6 × 4 give the same answer.
Worked example
There are 7 rows of chairs with 6 chairs in each row. How many chairs are there?
- 7 rows of 6 is 7 × 6.
- Count in 6s seven times, or use 7 × 6 = 42.
Answer:42 chairs
Key words
- multiply
- find the total of equal groups
- array
- objects in equal rows and columns
- factor
- a number being multiplied
- product
- the answer to a multiplication
Practise this
New questions every time.
Common Core-referenced: 3.OA.A.1