The idea, step by step
Facts describe equal groups
In 4 × 3, think of four equal groups of three. Count 3, 6, 9, 12, so four threes make 12. A multiplication fact is a short way to record equal groups.
Use the same meaning for the 2, 3, 4, 5 and 10 tables. The number in each group stays equal. If the groups are different sizes, multiplication alone does not describe their total.
Use a fact you know
A 4-times fact is double a 2-times fact. If 2 × 7 = 14, then 4 × 7 = 28. A 5-times fact is half the matching 10-times fact.
You can also add one group. From 5 × 3 = 15, add another three to get 6 × 3 = 18. Explain the link rather than starting the whole count again.
A common trap
Thinking 4 × 6 means 4 + 6.
Instead: Multiplication describes four groups of six: 6 + 6 + 6 + 6 = 24.
See the thinking
Double a known fact
Use 2 × 8 = 16 to find 4 × 8.
- Four groups of eight is twice two groups of eight.
- Double 16: 16 + 16 = 32.
Use the ten-times table
Find 5 × 9 using 10 × 9.
- 10 × 9 = 90.
- Five groups is half as many groups as ten.
- Half of 90 is 45.
Check your understanding
Find 7 × 3 using 6 × 3 = 18.
Show answer
21
Add one more group of three: 18 + 3 = 21.
Your turn
6 questions · Work at your own pace.
Read the questions online
- Calculate 8 × 2.
- Calculate 6 × 3.
- Calculate 9 × 4.
- Calculate 7 × 5.
- There are 8 boxes with 10 crayons in each. How many crayons are there?
- Explain how 5 × 4 = 20 helps you find 6 × 4.
Read the worked solutions
- Calculate 8 × 2.
Eight twos make 16.
16 - Calculate 6 × 3.
3 + 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 = 18.
18 - Calculate 9 × 4.
9 × 2 = 18, then double 18 to get 36.
36 - Calculate 7 × 5.
7 × 10 = 70; half is 35.
35 - There are 8 boxes with 10 crayons in each. How many crayons are there?
8 × 10 = 80.
80 crayons - Explain how 5 × 4 = 20 helps you find 6 × 4.
Add one more group of four: 20 + 4 = 24.
6 × 4 = 24.
Curriculum reference & lesson scope
Australian Curriculum v9 / SA Curriculum Mathematics
Tables 2, 3, 4, 5 and 10; linked division; arrays; one-/two-digit problems.
Official curriculum source ↗