Year 4 - Maths
Explain which is the most efficient factor to partition to solve a multiplication problem
Understand and represent multiplicative structures
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This pupil-friendly study guide includes a unit summary, clear notes, common mistakes, and quick questions with answers.
Unit Summary
In this unit pupils will explain how each part of a multiplication and division equation relates to a story. They will partition one of the factors in a multiplication equation in different ways using representations.
Lesson Summary
You will learn to explain which is the most efficient factor to partition to solve a multiplication problem.
Key Notes
- Multiplying a number by a group of numbers added together is the same as doing each multiplication separately.
- This means a factor can be partitioned to solve multiplication problems more efficiently.
- It is important to consider which factor to partition so that it enables you to solve a problem more efficiently.
- The factor being partitioned can represent the group size or the number of groups.
Vocabulary To Learn
- Multiples: A multiple is the product of a number and an integer.
- Partition: Partitioning is the act of splitting an object or value down into smaller parts.
- Distributive Law: The distributive law says that multiplying a number by a group of numbers added together is the same as doing each multiplication separately.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- Children may inaccurately describe which factor has been partitioned to solve a multiplication problem.
3 Quick Questions (With Answers)
1. Solve this in steps: explain the method from this lesson and why each step matters.
Multiplying a number by a group of numbers added together is the same as doing each multiplication separately. This means a factor can be partitioned to solve multiplication problems more efficiently.
2. Use this key word in a maths sentence and explain it clearly. 'Multiples'
A multiple is the product of a number and an integer. Use this word when showing your method, then check your final answer is reasonable.
3. Spot and fix this common maths mistake.
Mistake: Children may inaccurately describe which factor has been partitioned to solve a multiplication problem. Correction: Present children with lots of opportunities to create arrays, split them using a partitioning line and describe what they see before going on to use this to calculate.
More Lessons In This Unit
- Explain how each part of a multiplication and division equation relates to a story Study Guide
- Explain what each factor represents in a multiplication equation Study Guide
- Explain where zero can be part of a multiplication or division expression and the impact it has Study Guide
- Partition one of the factors in a multiplication equation using representations Study Guide
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