Objective
To visualize the concept of multiplication.
Hands-on multiplication is our family favorite way to teach kids multiplication. This method is very effective for my younger one who is a visual learner.
Supplies
Pipe cleaners, beads, paper, pencil/pen
Demonstration
To demonstrate the concept of multiplication, use pipe cleaners to represent multiplicand and use beads to represent multiplicator.
For example to show 3×5, give kids 3 pipe cleaners to represent number 3 and give them 5 beads for each pipe cleaner to represent number 5. This will make 3 rows of 5. When this model is made, ask kids how many rows of 5 we made? Ask kid to calculate the total number of beads. Show that 1st row of 5 + 2nd row of 5 + 3rd row of 5 makes total 3 rows of 5, meaning 3×5=15.
Multiplication has a commutative property, meaning that 3 x 5 = 5 x 3. To help kids visualize, take 5 pipe cleaners and ask kids to add 3 beads on each pipe cleanser. Show them how 1st of 3 + 2nd row of 3 + 3rd row of 3 + 4th row of 3 + 5th row of 3 adds to 15 as well.
Instead of beads and pipe cleaners, you can use stickers and draw respective number of groups to demonstrate multiples.
More Math Visualization Activities
Multiplication Patterns
Hands-on LCM
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