Multiplication and the Distributive Property

This activity applies the distributive property to decompose units in multiplication in alignment with Eureka MATH. Students will review step by step examples and engage in independent practice in a free workbook template that can apply to any two factors (from 1 to 12) to scaffold through the process. By understanding the conceptual foundation behind multiplication, it can facilitate the mastery of procedural fluency in multiplication facts and problem solving.

 

I use this lesson every year during the first quarter with my 3rd graders in Module 1 of Eureka MATH. It builds a great foundation for conceptual understanding of the relationship between multiplication and distributive property truly means. Comment below if this helps your students.

1) Strip Diagrams

First, students will review multiplication using a strip diagram. An example is shared followed by a page for them to practice.

 

a horizontal and vertical strip diagram is shown to solve for 6 times 8 equals 48

2) Number Bonds

Next, students will use number bonds to decompose numbers and apply the distributive property.

 

two different solutions for number bonds is shown to solve for 6 times 8 equals 48

3) Putting it all together

During the final step, students will engage in reflection and active processing of their learning to build connections.

The option to insert visuals, text, and audio record their own voice throughout the book will support emergent bilingual students practice their skills in the four language domains.

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3 replies

August 19, 2024

Thank you for sharing your resource! I love the choices that the iWorks apps give students. They can add audio, use shapes or the drawing, etc. Lots of voice and choice!

Another idea for the advanced students, they could use Keynote to create an animation illustrated the distributive property and add that to their book.

November 20, 2024

Thank you for sharing this resource with us! I love that this gives students several opportunties to work with multiplication and distrubutive property! I think this could be a resource that I can use during my internship!

November 20, 2024

Thank you for sharing this workbook template! This will be so helpful when introducing the distributive property to my future students!

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