Math3-5
Multiplying with Area Models for Grades 4-5
By MONICA B.
A practice packet that teaches students to multiply two- and three-digit numbers, including decimals, using area models and partial products. It moves from a worked model through guided and independent problems, and is well suited to a combined 4th and 5th grade math block of about 45 to 60 minutes.
Customize for your classroom
Teacher Guide & Tips
- Begin with the Key Terms box and the worked example for 24 × 36, thinking aloud as you decompose each number into expanded form and fill in the grid.
- Discussion question: Why does breaking 36 into 30 + 6 give the same answer as multiplying 24 by 36 directly, and how do the four partial products add up to the total?
- Scaffold for struggling readers: Provide a pre-drawn blank grid and have them fill in only the partial products first, then add them together with you before moving to independent work.
- Extension for advanced students: Ask them to create their own area model for a three-digit by two-digit problem with a decimal, such as 3.5 × 125, and explain how the decimal place is determined.
- Estimated time: About 10 minutes for the model, 15 for guided practice, and 20 to 30 for independent problems, with the grade 5 students tackling decimal items while grade 4 students focus on whole numbers.
Math3-5
Multiplying with Area Models for Grades 4-5
By MONICA B.
A practice packet that teaches students to multiply two- and three-digit numbers, including decimals, using area models and partial products. It moves from a worked model through guided and independent problems, and is well suited to a combined 4th and 5th grade math block of about 45 to 60 minutes.
Customize for your classroom
Teacher Guide & Tips
- Begin with the Key Terms box and the worked example for 24 × 36, thinking aloud as you decompose each number into expanded form and fill in the grid.
- Discussion question: Why does breaking 36 into 30 + 6 give the same answer as multiplying 24 by 36 directly, and how do the four partial products add up to the total?
- Scaffold for struggling readers: Provide a pre-drawn blank grid and have them fill in only the partial products first, then add them together with you before moving to independent work.
- Extension for advanced students: Ask them to create their own area model for a three-digit by two-digit problem with a decimal, such as 3.5 × 125, and explain how the decimal place is determined.
- Estimated time: About 10 minutes for the model, 15 for guided practice, and 20 to 30 for independent problems, with the grade 5 students tackling decimal items while grade 4 students focus on whole numbers.