Max Maths, Year 2, Learn together, Multiplying by 2, 3 and 4 (1)

In the 'Max Maths' curriculum for Year 2, children are introduced to the concept of multiplication as a means of finding the total number of items when they are grouped in 2s, 3s, and 4s. A practical and relatable example is used to illustrate this concept: flip-flops come in pairs, and the children are encouraged to count them to understand multiplication by 2. If there are 7 pairs of flip-flops, and each pair has 2 flip-flops, the children can either add 2 repeatedly, 2 + 2 + 2 + 2 + 2 + 2 + 2, which equals 14, or they can use multiplication, 7 × 2, to reach the same total of 14 flip-flops. This example also introduces the method of skip counting by twos, which is another strategy for multiplication, as shown by the sequence 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14.

Another exercise in the lesson involves counting keys, which further reinforces the concept of multiplication. The children are tasked with grouping the keys and applying their understanding of multiplication by 2, 3, and 4 to find the total number. This hands-on approach helps to solidify the children's comprehension of multiplication as both repeated addition and as a quicker way of counting items in groups. The lesson is designed to be interactive and engaging, making the concept of multiplication accessible and understandable for young learners.