Multiply and divide numbers by 10 using place value and the language of “ten times bigger”

Understanding the concept of multiplication by 10 is made engaging and accessible through a series of exercises in the ArithmeKit 3.18. Students are encouraged to explore the idea that multiplying a number by 10 makes it "ten times bigger," a fundamental principle of place value. The exercises involve matching pairs where one number is ten times larger than the other, and students are tasked with identifying the correct pairs. They are also prompted to create their own matching pairs problems, which solidifies their comprehension of the concept. To visualise the process, base 10 resources or place value counters can be used, showing the transformation of numbers such as 31 becoming 310, or 47 turning into 470 when multiplied by 10.

Further exercises challenge students to apply this knowledge to a variety of numbers, including single digits, tens, and even two-digit numbers. For instance, multiplying 3, 4, and 5 by 10, as well as 30, 40, and 50 by 10, and finally 22, 23, and 24 by 10, helps them see the consistent pattern of the place value shifting to the left, making the number ten times larger. Additionally, the material includes problem-solving tasks with negative numbers and missing digits, where students must use logical reasoning to find solutions that make the given statements true. These activities not only reinforce multiplication by 10 but also integrate critical thinking and problem-solving skills.