Entry 5: WOAH... Big Numbers

Personal Objective:
This week I wanted to build on multiplication. The Common Core Standards requires fourth graders to be able to multiply one and up to four digits as well as multiply two by two digits. Multiplying larger digits can be intimidating to students so I would like to focus on techniques that would encourage students.

Common Core Standard:
Fourth Grade 4.NBT.B.5
5. Multiply a whole number of up to four digits by a one-digit whole number, and multiply two two-digit numbers, using strategies based on place value and the properties of operations. Illustrate and explain the calculation by using equations, rectangular arrays, and/or area models. 

Activity:
Education.com

Other Resources:
Long Multiplication Song
Khan Academy



Reflection:
Multiplying with more than one digit can be challenging for students especially if they do not have a good multiplication foundation. As teachers, it is our responsibility to aid students in finding the best approach that suits their learning style. The Three Ways to Multiply uses three different techniques they can use to multiply. I think it is an excellent way to help students to find their preferred method. I remember being forced to use my teacher's preferred technique. It was not the best way to learn mathematics. The second worksheet from Education.com reinforces that multiplication is repeated addition. The exercise helps the students' breakdown large digit multiplication. Sometimes it is easier for a student to understand the multiple digit multiplication through a different approach. Both Long Multiplication and Khan Academy videos are useful visual aids and can help engage students. 

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