How To Teach Array Models in Multiplication a Micro Lesson

Special Education micro math lesson teaching students to identify expressions for an array.

Based on IEP goal - By (date), when given problems with multiplication, the student will interpret products of whole numbers, e.g., interpret 5 × 7 as the total number of objects in 5 groups of 7 objects each, improving operations and algebraic thinking skills from 0/10 work samples out of ten consecutive trials to 8/10 work samples in ten consecutive trials. 3.OA.A.1

Lesson Objective

Students will be able to understand and solve multiplication equations using array models as they relate to the basic concepts of multiplication.

Guiding Question

How might an array be a faster method to solving multiplication problems?

Tools and Materials

36 math counter per student (this will accommodate an array up to 6x6 in size)

Additional counter for exploration during independent work time

Academic Vocabulary

Array, Product

Prerequisite Skills

Skip counting, Counting equal groups, Repeated addition

Introduction

Read your students the follow word problem sample

Jacob wants to buy 6 movie tickets that cost $5 each. How much money will Jacob need to purchase the movie tickets?

Show what you know:

Let the students brainstorm ideas based on previous knowledge of multiplication especially as it relates to the concept of repeated addition. 5+5+5+5+5+5 (table partners or groups 2-3 three minutes)

Do not be afraid to wait the full time even if there is silence and it feels like an eternity. Give them time for productive struggle of thought, stamina is not a bad thing to build. Extend if conversation is adding to group knowledge base.

Teacher Modeling