What Is the Area Model of Multiplication?

The area model method is a different approach to solving multi-digit multiplication problems. Many times, students get hung up using the standard algorithm right away, and this can lead to maths frustration. By teaching your students how to solve problems with the area model, this may make them feel more confident since they are working with smaller problems.

So, what is the area model exactly? The area model, also known as the box method, is a different approach to solving multi-digit multiplication problems. It involves breaking down the numbers into smaller parts and arranging them in a rectangular grid to find the product. This method can help students better visualise the multiplication process and understand the concepts behind it.

Area Model Multiplication Worksheets – PDF and Editable Versions!

Teach Starter has created a bundle of colour-by-number worksheets to help your students improve their understanding of using the area model to solve multi-digit multiplication problems. This teacher-created resource includes 3 different colour-by-number pages where students must fill in a missing number within the area model, find the corresponding number on the colouring page and shade it in according to the key.

Choose from the 2 digits x 2 digits, 3 digits x 1 digit or 4 digits x 1 digit version. Each version has an accompanying answer key to make grading quick and easy!

How to Get Your Multiplication With Area Model Worksheets

If you are looking to snag these worksheets for your classroom, head on over to the green download button! Here, you will find the quick-print PDF file as well as the editable Google Slides version. If selecting the Google Slides option, please note that you will first be prompted to make a copy of the resource to your personal drive before accessing it.

This resource was created by Cassandra Friesen, a Teach Starter Collaborator. 

More Area Model Resources for Your Classroom!

Don’t stop there! We’ve got more activities to shorten your lesson planning time:  

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Area Model of Multiplication Task Cards

Guide your students to use area model multiplication to solve multi-digit multiplication problems with this set of 24 task cards.

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Area Model Multiplication Interactive Activity

Help students understand how to use the area model of multiplication when solving multi-digit multiplication problems with this interactive activity.

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Area Model for Multiplication Mini-Book

Demonstrate how to use area models for multiplication with this printable mini-book.