Multiplication and division - The multiplication symbol - Planning

In a Year 2 mathematics lesson, children are introduced to the concept of multiplication using the multiplication symbol (x). This foundational step is designed to help them connect the dots between the idea of repeated addition and multiplication. The lesson's key vocabulary includes terms such as 'addition', 'multiplication', 'lots of', 'represent', 'interpret', and 'repeated addition'. Students are encouraged to use concrete resources and pictorial representations to solidify their understanding of these concepts. Partner work is emphasised to foster discussion and the use of full sentences, helping children articulate their understanding clearly.

During the lesson, children engage in various activities. They start by learning to express repeated addition sentences using the multiplication symbol, understanding it as 'groups of'. For example, '3 groups of 6' is shown to be equivalent to adding three 6s together (6 + 6 + 6). They are then guided through exercises that require them to draw representations, write repeated addition, and express these as multiplication sentences. The lesson also includes reasoning and problem-solving activities, where students are prompted to think about the relationships and differences between groups and totals without necessarily calculating the final number. Children are encouraged to reflect on what they've learned, the skills they've used, and what they found challenging. Differentiated sheets cater to varying levels of understanding, from working towards the goal to achieving greater depth, with the more advanced students exploring the commutative law and distinguishing between repeated addition and multiplication.