Max Maths, Year 2, Learn together, Multiplication as an array (1)

In a Year 2 mathematics lesson, children are introduced to the concept of multiplication through the use of arrays. The lesson begins with a relatable scenario where a character named Padma has baked cookies. To help visualise multiplication, the cookies are arranged in an array with 4 columns and 3 rows. This practical example shows that multiplication is not just about memorisation, but can be seen and understood in everyday life. By counting the total number of cookies, which is 12, children can see that 3 times 4, or 3 × 4, equals 12, and similarly, 4 times 3, or 4 × 3, also equals 12. This demonstrates the commutative property of multiplication in an engaging and interactive way.

The lesson encourages children to understand that multiplication can be represented visually as an array, making it easier to comprehend. By arranging items into rows and columns, children can count the total to find the product of two numbers. This hands-on approach helps to solidify their understanding of multiplication and its real-world applications. It's an effective method for teaching young learners the basics of multiplication, ensuring that they recognise the pattern and the concept behind the operation, rather than just memorising the facts. This foundational knowledge sets the stage for more complex mathematical concepts in the future.