Lesson: Multiplying Up to 5

Multiplication is a fast way of adding the same number many times. In this lesson, we’ll learn how to multiply numbers up to 5, explore different ways to understand multiplication, and solve problems using multiplication.

Basic Multiplication

Multiplication is like repeated addition. Instead of adding the same number over and over, we can multiply.

  • Example: 3 x 4 means “three groups of four,” which is the same as 4 + 4 + 4 = 12.

Some important facts about multiplying by numbers up to 5:

  • 1 x any number = that number (1 x 3 = 3)
  • 2 x a number is doubling that number (2 x 5 = 10)
  • 3 x a number adds the number three times (3 x 2 = 6)
  • 4 x a number adds the number four times (4 x 3 = 12)
  • 5 x a number adds the number five times (5 x 2 = 10)

Multiplication in Context

We use multiplication in many real-life situations. If you are sharing things equally, arranging objects, or buying multiple items, you’re using multiplication.

  • Example: If you have 4 boxes with 3 apples in each box, how many apples do you have in total?
    • 4 x 3 = 12 apples.

Multiplying with Images

Sometimes, pictures can help us understand multiplication better. If you see groups of objects, you can count the groups and multiply to find the total.

  • Example: You see 3 rows of 4 stars each. Instead of counting them one by one, you can multiply:
    • 3 x 4 = 12 stars.

Multiplication Word Problems

Word problems are a great way to practice multiplication in real-life situations. Look for key phrases like “groups of,” “each,” or “in total” to know when to multiply.

  • Example: There are 5 baskets. Each basket has 4 oranges. How many oranges are there in total?
    • 5 x 4 = 20 oranges.

Practice Multiplication

To get better at multiplication, practice your multiplication facts for numbers up to 5. Knowing these facts will make it easier to solve bigger problems later.

  • Practice Example: What is 2 x 5? (Answer: 10)
  • Practice Example: What is 4 x 4? (Answer: 16)