What is Area Model for Multiplication?

It’s time to dive into a super cool math strategy that is revolutionizing how our kiddos understand and solve multiplication problems. It’s called an area model, and trust me, it’s a game-changer!

What is an Area Model Anyways?

The area model for multiplication is a visual tool used to tackle those tricky multiplication problems. Instead of just memorizing facts, this strategy helps students truly grasp why they’re getting the answers they do. Students use place value to help solve multiplication problems. It’s like giving them x-ray vision into the multiplication process!

Here’s the scoop:

You break down the numbers by place value (connecting to expanded form!)
Pop those numbers from step 1 into boxes to give students a visual of what they’re multiplying (for our visual learners, you can even use base 10 blocks to show each of the ones)

Why Use the Area Model?

Let’s face it, back in the day, we learned multiplication just by memorizing facts, carrying numbers, and hoping for the best. But that doesn’t really teach our students why they’re getting the answers they do. The area model is the total game-changer because:

It helps students see why 1 x 4 = 4 AND 10 x 4 = 40
It builds a strong foundation of number sense, which is crucial for future math success!
It makes tackling bigger numbers a breeze as students continue their math careers.

So How do I Teach the Area Model?

Are you ready to bring this awesome strategy into your classroom? Here’s how:

Start by teaching place value and expanded form.
Introduce the area model boxes
PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE!

You may even want to host a parent math night or send a video walking through the process before your multiplication unit. Parents often struggle with this “new math,” but once they see it in action, they’re totally on board. Trust me, this is a lifesaver!

The Area Model in Action

Want to see how this strategy works in real life? Check out my Multiplication Extension Activity: Area Model, Partial Products, & Error Analysis and Area Model Multiplication Worksheets for some hands-on practice!

Beyond the Area Model

Once your students have mastered the area model, they’ll be ready to tackle

other helpful multiplication strategies! Check out my blog posts on Partial Products in Multiplication and How to Make Your Class Multiplication masters for even more multiplication fun!

Remember, building a strong foundation in math is like building a house, without a solid foundation, everything else will crumble. Let’s give our students the tools they need to become math superstars!

Happy multiplying!