Arrays Make Math Easy to Visualize

As young mathematicians, we are exploring the use of arrays to help us with multiplication. It is imperative that we develop strong visual images of multiplication to develop conceptual strategies for solving multiplication problems. When we can clearly visualize how the numbers being multiplied are related, we can develop flexible, efficient, and accurate strategies for solving any multiplication problems.

One way we are learning to visualize these relationships is through the use of arrays. An array is a rectangular arrangement of an equal number of items in rows and columns. Arrays can be helpful when solving more “difficult” multiplication situations. Being able to visualize how to break multiplication problems into parts becomes even more important when we begin to solve multi-digit problems.

The following is an example of how we can split an array into smaller arrays making it easier to find the product.

Another way we can lay a strong foundation for multiplication is to practice skip counting by multiples of numbers 2-12. The goal is to skip count fluently (within 3 seconds) from one multiple to the next.This task can be practiced at home, between commercial breaks, or even in the car. Being able to skip count fluently will undoubtedly help us in our work with multiplication and division. Check out this website that helps with skip counting.