Array Multiplication Grid Game with Graph Paper
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Are your kids learning multiplication facts? One of my kids is in the beginning stages of learning times tables at our house. We played a fun little array multiplication grid game recently that helped teach the concept really well.
This game is easy and cheap to put together. You may already have the supplies available.
What is Array Multiplication?
The multiplication grid game is a great game for teaching about array multiplication. Array multiplication is when you arrange objects, pictures, or numbers into columns and rows, for instance three rows of four apples.
Arrays are so useful when trying to teach multiplication concepts. We like to use small objects- counting bears, beads, mini erasers, or pennies to help teach this concept, too.
This game is a simple & easy way to teach array multiplication through using graph paper.
How to Play the Multiplication Grid Game:
To play the multiplication grid game, you will need 1 sheet of graph paper (laminate it if you want to make it reusable), 1 pair of dice, and some dry-erase markers. Optional for kids new to multiplication, give kids a multiplication table to help them get the totals.
It can be played with 2-4 players.
We’ve done a version of that game, but not as comprehensively as what you describe. I think that’s a really great way to make it a real game — to cover as much area as you can, and you can also see how the different areas interact with each other. Adding colors is always a bonus!
We also do tons of skip counting. My kid is in a weird place — she’s still learning her addition facts (first grade-ish skill) but also thinking multiplicatively. We’ve done some work deconstructing the 100’s chart, but although I’d like to move on to finding patterns in the times tables, I’m holding off until her mental addition is really strong.
Sounds like tons of fun. I will have to use this when I substitute that grade level. Thanks
I love it! I am going to have to try this…mine is NOT getting multiplication! Thanks for linking up with Brag Time Thursday!
Oooh… this looks great. We’re really into math games at our place and I need some new ones.
Nice differentiation ideas and even dealing with a late arrival to the game! Very nice.
I love this! Grid paper is so much fun!! I still remember when I learned my multiplication, and it really helped to have a physical, visual element to it! Thanks so much for linking up at Teach Me Tuesday!
I love this activity, where did you find the large graph paper? I’ve only been able to find paper sized. Thanks!
It is actually just regular sized 🙂
I really like this idea. It would also be useful in thinking of area and perimeter. What if you role a 6 and 4, but instead of filling in a 6×4 array, you were allowed to fill in an area of 24 or a shape with a perimeter of 24.
Thank you for posting this idea. We all learn from sharing ideas.
Thank you for wonderful ideas!
LOVE