Multiplication and Division - Written Methods - Planning

In a Year 4 mathematics lesson, students delve into written methods for multiplication and division with a focus on multiplying a two-digit number by a one-digit number. The lesson begins with a review of previous learning to remind students of the various informal written methods available. The class is then introduced to the concept of using a number line to solve multiplication problems. For example, to multiply 26 by 6, the students learn to break down the number 26 into tens and ones, multiplying 10 by 6 twice to account for the 20, and then multiplying the 6 ones. The results are then added together to find the final answer. This method is practiced with numbers such as 58, where students are encouraged to use a number line to multiply the tens and ones separately before combining them.

Following this, Activity 2 shifts focus to using base 10 blocks and a part-whole model to understand multiplication. The children are shown how to partition the number 24 into 20 and 4, and then multiply each part by 3. They use their knowledge that 2 times 3 equals 6 to deduce that 20 times 3 equals 60, and then add the totals to find the full product of 24 times 3. Independent work on differentiated worksheets allows students to practice these skills at varying levels of difficulty. The plenary session includes a 'Give me five' reflection activity, encouraging students to consider what they have learned, the skills they have used, and any challenges they faced. The lesson structure supports students working towards expected levels and those ready for greater depth, with tailored activities to reinforce their understanding of multiplication through visual aids and the expanded method.