Multiplication is an integral concept in mathematics that is essential for students to learn early on. It is a fundamental skill that builds the foundation for more complex mathematical concepts later in life. In particular, multiplying double-digit numbers by larger numbers can be challenging for students. In this article, we will explore some activities that teachers can use to teach their students how to multiply a 2-digit number by a larger number.
1. Build with Base Blocks
Base blocks are an excellent way to introduce students to the concept of multiplication. You start by laying out rows of base blocks to represent the double-digit number, and then you ask students to group them in multiples of the larger number. For example, if you’re teaching students how to multiply 23 by 5, you would lay out two sets of 10 blocks on the top row and three single blocks on the bottom row. Students would then group five blocks together and count how many groups they have, resulting in the final answer of 115.
2. Multiplication Bingo
Bingo is a fun and engaging activity that many students enjoy. You can use it to teach multiplication, too. Start by creating a bingo card with the double-digit numbers on one side and the multiples of the larger number on the other side. Call out the multiplication problems one by one, and students have to locate the appropriate answer on their bingo cards and cross it off. The first student to get a line of crosses, either horizontal, vertical, or diagonal, wins the game.
3. Number Lines
Number lines are another effective way to teach multiplication. You can create a large number line on the board, and then ask students to plot the double-digit number on the line. Next, they should jump forward in multiples of the larger number to find the final answer. For example, to solve 65 x 4, students would plot 65 on the number line and then jump forward four spaces, four times, to find the answer of 260.
4. Array Models
Array models are a visual way to represent multiplication. Start by drawing a grid on the board with the larger number along the top and the double-digit number down the side. Then, students should fill in each cell with the product of the corresponding numbers. For example, to solve 47 x 8, students would draw an array with 8 along the top and 47 down the side, and then fill in each cell with the product of those two numbers. The final answer is the sum of all the cells in the array.
Conclusion
Multiplication can be a challenging concept for students to master, especially when multiplying double-digit numbers by larger numbers. However, with the right teaching methods and activities, students can understand the concept better. The activities outlined above, such as base blocks, multiplication bingo, number lines, and array models, are all effective in teaching students how to multiply a 2-digit number by a larger number. Teachers can use these methods to make learning multiplication fun, engaging, and accessible for all students.
