Multiplication and division - Add equal groups - Planning

In the initial stages of Year 2 mathematics focusing on multiplication and division, the lesson on 'Add equal groups' provides a foundational step for understanding multiplication as repeated addition. The lesson utilises differentiated sheets, teaching slides, and practical objects to help children visualise and create equal and unequal groups. Key vocabulary such as 'repeated addition', 'multiplication', 'equal', 'unequal', and 'represent' are introduced to facilitate learning. The session begins with a recap on adding three single-digit numbers, which paves the way for students to add up to three equal groups of single-digit numbers. More complex groupings are limited to numbers easily recognisable in patterns such as 2s, 5s, 10s, and 3s.

During the class, students engage in partner work to articulate their understanding of the concepts, followed by a series of activities that encourage different representations of equal groups and the use of repeated addition to find totals. The practical aspect of the lesson involves using image cards to create visual representations of repeated addition. As they progress, students tackle reasoning and problem-solving exercises, such as identifying odd representations out and correcting them. The lesson concludes with a reflective 'Give me five' session where students summarise their learning, the skills they used, and what they found challenging. The lesson caters to differing levels of understanding, with activities designed for those 'Working Towards', 'Expected', and 'Greater Depth', ensuring that each child can relate equal groups to repeated addition in a way that matches their ability.