Multiplication and Division

Numbers have been used to pass on information for many thousands of years. Throughout history, people have used numbers to combine information and summarise it. Today, there are four ways of doing calculations: 

1. Mental math: all calculations are done in your head. 

2. Pen and paper: you break down the calculations you have to do on paper. 

3. Calculator: you use a calculator to solve your problem. 

4. Computer: you use computer software like Microsoft Excel to work out the calculations you need to do.

While it is helpful to have access to calculators and computer software, there are helpful strategies to be able to do mental math more easily. 

For example, a useful way to improve your mental multiplication and division is to draw and count the number of groups:

If you need to multiply 3 x 2, one way of doing this is to count the total of 3 groups of 2. 

Use the arrows to view the multiplication examples and practice activities, or click the link below to download a printable guide to multiplication.