Lesson: What is Multiplication?

Multiplication is a way to add groups of numbers quickly. It’s like repeated addition, where we add the same number multiple times.

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Basics of Multiplication

Multiplication uses two numbers:

• The first number tells us how many groups we have.
• The second number tells us how many are in each group.
• Example: 3 x 4 means 3 groups of 4. This is the same as adding 4 three times: 4 + 4 + 4 = 12.

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Understanding Multiplication

Multiplication can be written with the “x” symbol, and the result is called the product.

• Example: 5 x 2 = 10. This means there are 5 groups of 2, which equals 10.

We can also think of multiplication as creating arrays (rows and columns), making it easier to visualize.

• Example: 3 x 2 can be seen as 3 rows of 2 dots.

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Multiplication in Action

Let’s see multiplication in action by using real-life examples:

• Example: If you have 4 baskets with 3 apples in each, how many apples are there in total?
  You can multiply 4 x 3 = 12 apples.

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Simple Multiplication

Once you know the basics, you can start solving simple multiplication problems. Practice with small numbers will help you get better.

• Example:
  2 x 3 = 6
  4 x 5 = 20
  6 x 1 = 6