Authentic Lessons for 21st Century Learning

Break It Apart

MULTIPLICATION Strategies

K20 Center, Lyndsie Pearce | Published: September 16th, 2020 by Oklahoma Young Scholars/Javits

  • Grade Level Grade Level 4th
  • Subject Subject Mathematics
  • Course Course Elementary Mathematics
  • Time Frame Time Frame 3-4 class period(s)
  • Duration More 240 minutes

Summary

During this lesson, students will use their prior knowledge of multiplication and the distributive property to solve a 2-digit by 2-digit multiplication problem.

Essential Question(s)

How can you use multiplication strategies to solve a story problem?

Snapshot

Engage

Students activate prior knowledge with group discussion and are introduced to the problem.

Explore

"Harvest Strategy": Students create a poster for their solution.

Explain

Students solve story problems with their preferred method.

Extend

"Who Has the Largest?": Students play a card game to practice multiplication.

Evaluate

Students complete an Exit Ticket to evaluate their understanding.

Materials

  • Story problem handout

  • Large sheets of bulletin board paper (one per group)

  • Sticky notes (one per student)

  • Deck of playing cards with face cards and 10s removed

  • Craft sticks (optional)

  • Exit ticket

Engage

Begin by discussing the distributive property to activate students' prior knowledge of multiplication. Ask students, "What does the distributive property look like?" Students may answer the questions through whole group discussion, written/illustrated responses, or by modeling.