🧮 3rd Grade · Math3.OA.A.1Unit 1: Meaning of multiplication

Arrays

Google Classroom

🎯 Objective: Students use rows and columns to model multiplication.

Lesson outline

  1. Find arrays in the room: egg cartons, windows, desks in rows.
  2. Build 3 rows of 5 with tiles; write 3 × 5 = 15 (rows × columns).
  3. Students build arrays for 4 × 6 and 2 × 9, then trade with a partner who writes the equation.
  4. Exit: draw an array for 4 × 6 and write its product.

Lesson 2 of 5 in this unit. In the Lesson Planner this lesson takes 1–3 class periods depending on your timetable: day 1 introduce & model, then practice, small-group reteach and a quick check.

📐 Standard

3.OA.A.1

Common Core State Standards for Mathematics, Grade 3 — typical US scope & sequence

🏁 Unit goals

  • Interpret products as equal groups (5 × 7 = 5 groups of 7)
  • Use arrays, equal groups and number lines to multiply

✅ Check for understanding

End with the exit ticket in the outline. Sort answers into got it / almost / not yet and start the next lesson with a 5-minute reteach for the “not yets”.

Practice & resources on Thinkabara

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More lessons in “Meaning of multiplication”

  1. Equal groups
  2. Arrays
  3. Skip-counting on a number line
  4. Multiplication word problems
  5. Multiplying by 2, 5 and 10

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