In our Maths tasks we have been learning about arrays, multiplication and division through problem solving tasks.

Multiplication is a very important part of maths, and having a good “automatic recall” of times tables helps us with many different areas of maths.

During class time we have begun spending time practising different times tables and using multiplication in our problem solving.

We have also been working with arrays to help build our mathematical skills. An array is a set of objects arranged in rows and columns. Each row has the same number of objects, so they represent equal groups.  Arrays can make counting and calculating easier.

Arrays are useful for skip counting and solving multiplication problems.

The array above has 3 rows of 4 blocks. That is 3 groups of 4, or 3 x 4.

We can find out how many blocks there are by skip counting by 4’s:  4, 8, 12 – or by doing repeated addition: 4 + 4 + 4 = 12.

There are 12 blocks. So, 3 x 4 = 12.

Here’s a site to help prastise your times tables.

When do we use arrays in real life – can you give us an example of some? Where have you seen them in real life?

Which times tables would you like to improve?