What Is an Array?

After students understand addition well, they will most commonly move into understanding different ways to represent multiplication. While there are many ways to do this, using an array is a great way to help students visualise multiplication conceptually. So, how do you explain an array to your students? Let’s take a quick dive into this mathematical term.

In maths, an array is a way to organise objects or numbers in rows and columns to make them easier to work with. When using concrete objects or drawings, an array makes a grid-like picture. Students can then use skip counting or clustering to find the total number of objects.

As an example, imagine you have some marbles, and you want to arrange them in a rectangular shape. You can put them in rows and columns, such as 3 marbles in one row and 4 marbles in another row. This arrangement represents the multiplication problem 3 x 4, which equals 12 marbles in all.

Practise Drawing Arrays and Writing Number Sentences

Teach Starter has created a 2-page worksheet to use as independent practise as part of your multiplication lesson after students are introduced to the skill of using and creating arrays. 

On page 1, students will write the multiplication equation to match each array. On page 2, they will create an array for each multiplication equation and solve it. 

In addition to individual student work time, this worksheet can be used as a(n):

• guided maths group activity
• Maths station/center activity 
• exit ticket activity
• whole-class review activity (via smartboard)

Go Deeper Into Multiplication with Arrays Practise 

Fast finishers can build more arrays and solve them on the backside of their worksheet. 

If students struggle with the concept, provide manipulatives like connecting cubes and MAB counters. 

Easily Prepare This Resource for Your Students

Because this download includes the answer sheet, we recommend you print one copy of the entire file. Then, make photocopies of the blank worksheets for students to fill out on their own. 

You can also make this worksheet more sustainable by adding it to your classroom maths center! Print a few copies on thick card and slip them into dry erase sleeves. Students can record their answers with a dry erase marker and then erase and reuse them. 

You can also project the worksheet onto a screen and work through it as a class by having students record their answers in their maths notebooks. 

How to Get Your Array Worksheets

Are you ready to get your hands on these multiplication practise sheets? Head on over to the green download button and choose from the quick-print PDF file or editable Google Slides version of this resource. If choosing the Google Slides option, please note that you will be prompted to first make a copy of the resource to your personal drive before accessing. 

An answer key is also included with this download for quick and easy grading!

This resource was created by Melissa McLaren, a Teach Starter Collaborator. 

More Multiplication Resources for Your Lesson Plans!

Don’t stop there! We’ve got more array activities we know your students will love!  

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