What Are Equal Groups in Math?

When it comes to math, the term “equal groups” refers to a concept that is frequently used with multiplication and division. Essentially, an equal group is a set of objects that are arranged in groups of the same size. This concept is most commonly taught in 3rd grade to model and comprehend multiplication and division operations.

When multiplying, you can think of it as a method for determining the overall quantity when you have a specific number of equal groups and a certain number of items in each group. For instance, if you have four groups of three cookies each, you can calculate the total number of cookies by multiplying the number of groups (4) by the number of cookies in each group (3). This calculation results in 12 cookies in total (4 x 3 = 12).

Practice Making Equal Groups – Multiplication Style!

Teach Starter has created an engaging hands-on activity to help your 2nd and 3rd grade students understand the relationship between equal groups and multiplication problems. To complete this activity:

1. Place the “Equal Groups” playing cards in a pile facedown between the players. 
2. Player 1 flips over the top card. Using the manipulatives, they make the groups indicated on the playing card. When they have finished, they record their work on their “Equal Groups Mat” – drawing a picture, labeling the groups, and writing as a multiplication sentence.  
3. Player 2 checks Player 1’s work. If it is incorrect, Player 1 must erase and try again. If it is correct, Player 2 proceeds with their turn. 
4. Play continues until each player has filled in their mat completely.  

Easily Prepare This Hands-On Multiplication (Equal Groups) Activity For Your Students

If you are ready for your students to practice making equal groups and relating them to multiplication, head on over to the green download button! Here, you will find the quick-print PDF options available in both color and black and white. 

Consider printing this teaching resource on cardstock for durability. The recording mat can be slipped into a dry erase sleeve so students can use a whiteboard marker to complete the activity.

Extra Multiplication Materials For You!

Don’t stop there! We’ve got more activities and resources that cut down on lesson planning time:  

teaching resource

Multiplication With Equal Groups Spinner Activity

Use this hands-on activity with your students and help them make equal groups to represent multiplication problems.

teaching resource

Group It Many Ways – Multiplication Activity

Promote hands-on learning with this activity, where students will practice making equal groups to represent multiplication.