Operations and Algebraic Thinking

Multiplying is adding again and again

Read 3 × 4 as three lots of four, and work it out by adding.

3 × 4 means three lots of 4. You can always work it out by adding 4 three times.

Worked example

What is 3 × 4?

  1. Write 4 down three times: 4 + 4 + 4.

    The first number tells you how many lots.

Try it together

Now 4 × 5 together.

    1.Four lots of 5. What is 5 + 5?

    Remember

    Lots of the same number is what multiplying is for. It is just a quick way to write a long adding sum.

    Have a go

    Have a go: 2 × 9

    Hint: Two lots of nine.

    Ready to practice?

    Eight questions on what you have just read. Nothing is timed, and you can play as many times as you like.

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