Teach Three Strategies for Multiplying Decimals

In modern-day mathematics classrooms, we teachers know that there is more than one way to solve a problem!

When it comes to multiplying decimals by decimals, there are three main strategies that are available to our students:

1. Visual Models – Using grids or arrays to represent decimal multiplication by shading in the appropriate areas. 
2. Area Models – Drawing rectangles to represent decimals and partitioning them into smaller sections based on place value. 
3. Standard Algorithm – Lining up the decimals, multiplying as you would with whole numbers, and then adjusting the decimal place in the final product. 

Once your students are familiar with these decimal multiplication strategies, they’ll need some opportunities to practise using them! That’s why the expert teachers at Teach Starter have created this handy worksheet pack to help your students put their knowledge of visual models, area models and the standard algorithm to the test. The pack contains:

• 1 x visual model practice page with answers
• 2 x area model practice pages with answers
• 1 x standard algorithm page with answers

This worksheet pack downloads as a printable PDF or an editable Google Slides file. 

Why Teach Multiple Strategies for Multiplying Decimals?

While your students may develop a preference for one of the above methods, it’s important that they become proficient with all three: visual models, the area model and the standard algorithm. Here are some answers you can have ready if your students ask, “Why do we have to learn all of these strategies?”

1. Different Strategies for Different Ways of Learning – Students have diverse learning styles and preferences. By introducing various strategies like the visual model, area model and standard algorithm, you accommodate different ways students process information. This ensures that each student can find a method that resonates with their individual learning style, fostering a deeper and more personalised understanding of the concept.
2. Different Strategies for Different Problems – Teaching different strategies for multiplying decimals by decimals equips students with a toolkit for problem-solving. They can approach a multiplication problem in multiple ways, choosing the method that best suits the complexity of the task or their own comfort level. This flexibility is crucial for developing adaptive problem-solving skills that extend beyond the classroom and into real-world applications.
3. Different Strategies for Different Capabilities – Students have varying levels of mathematical proficiency. By providing different strategies, you address the diverse needs of your students. Struggling learners may benefit from more visual or concrete approaches, while advanced students may appreciate the challenge of mastering multiple methods and understanding the underlying principles.

Download These Multiplying Decimals Worksheets

Use the dropdown menu on the Download button to access either the printable PDF or the editable Google Slides version of this resource. (Note: You will be prompted to make a copy of the Google Slides version to your personal drive before accessing it.)

As this resource contains answer sheets interspersed throughout, we recommend printing one copy of the entire file. Then, remove the answer sheets and make photocopies of the worksheets as required.

This resource was created by Kaylyn Chupp, a Teach Starter collaborator.

Get Your Students Multiplying Decimals by Decimals

Do you need some more great resources to assist you in teaching decimal multiplication to your students? Click below for some great suggestions from our teacher team!

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