Year 1

We can calculate simple multiplication sums with objects.
We can recognise and write the multiplication symbol.

Year 1 Unit 16

What we are learning:

We are now learning what multiplying means and practising with simple numbers

Use practical objects such as pencils or building blocks

Don’t be tempted to set these out as formal recorded ‘sums’ yet – you are still reinforcing the concept and understanding of multiplication

We use the words ‘multiply’, times’ and ‘lots of’ as in ‘2 lots of 3’

Only use 2 times and 3 times and stick to sums where the answer is below 20

Once you and your child have completed lots of practical sums together, have a go at writing a few together so your child becomes familiar with the x sign e.g. 2 x 4 = 8

ACTIVITY 1: MULTIPLYING WITH OBJECTS

ACTIVITY 2: SIMPLE MULTIPLICATION SUMS

Activities you can do at home:

• Set out some biscuits and ask, If we have 2 friends coming to tea and each will eat 2 biscuits, how many biscuits will they eat altogether?
• Allow your child to work the answer out by moving the biscuits and counting
• Repeat this with everyday objects around the house, when shopping etc
• From a pile of objects (small identical toys) ask your child to set out 2 piles of 3 in each and then to calculate how many all together
• Try this with different numbers where the answer is below 20
• Use objects to complete the sums on the activity sheet

Good questions to ask:

Vary your language so that your child understands the range of language that is used.
What is two times two?
What are two lots of two?
Two times two equals…..?
If I have two lots of two how many do I have?

If your child:

Wants to count each pile of objects when they have set them out
Let them do this to build their confidence. Try asking them if they can remember how many objects they put in each pile.