When to use Multiplication Array blocks
Multiplication Array blocks work well for:- Introducing multiplication as “groups of”
- Showing the relationship between multiplication and division
- Demonstrating the commutative property (e.g., 3 x 5 = 5 x 3)
- Visualizing times tables and math facts
- Building number sense and skip counting skills
Settings
Array settings
slider
default:"3"
The number of rows in the array (1 to 12).
slider
default:"5"
The number of columns in the array (1 to 12).
select
default:"Dot"
The shape used for each element in the array:
- Dot: Filled dots
- Star: Star shapes
- Circle: Open circles
- Square: Square shapes
color
default:"#4A90D9"
The color of the array symbols.
Display settings
switch
default:"false"
When enabled, displays labels alongside each row.
switch
default:"false"
When enabled, displays labels above each column.
select
default:"None"
How the array elements are visually grouped:
- None: No grouping
- Rows: Groups elements by row
- Columns: Groups elements by column
select
default:"Medium"
The display size of the array:
- Small: Compact display
- Medium: Standard display
- Large: Larger display for projection or emphasis
Highlight settings
You can highlight specific rows in a different color to draw attention to particular groups. This is useful for showing skip counting patterns or breaking a multiplication into parts.Tips for teachers and parents
Best practices:- Use Grouping by rows to reinforce “groups of” thinking (e.g., 3 rows of 5)
- Turn the array sideways by swapping rows and columns to demonstrate the commutative property
- Highlight specific rows to show partial products or skip counting
- Start with small arrays (2x3, 3x4) and build up to larger ones
- Use row and column labels to connect the visual to written number sentences
- Pair with question blocks to have learners write the matching multiplication sentence
Related blocks
- Number Chart: For number patterns and counting
- Number Frame: For ten-frame and twenty-frame displays