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The Multiplication Array block creates a visual grid of symbols arranged in rows and columns. Use it to help learners see how multiplication works as repeated groups.

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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

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Settings

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Array settings

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Rows
slider
default:"3"
The number of rows in the array (1 to 12).
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Columns
slider
default:"5"
The number of columns in the array (1 to 12).
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Symbol
select
default:"Dot"
The shape used for each element in the array:
  • Dot: Filled dots
  • Star: Star shapes
  • Circle: Open circles
  • Square: Square shapes
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Symbol color
color
default:"#4A90D9"
The color of the array symbols.

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Display settings

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Show row labels
switch
default:"false"
When enabled, displays labels alongside each row.
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Show column labels
switch
default:"false"
When enabled, displays labels above each column.
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Grouping
select
default:"None"
How the array elements are visually grouped:
  • None: No grouping
  • Rows: Groups elements by row
  • Columns: Groups elements by column
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Size
select
default:"Medium"
The display size of the array:
  • Small: Compact display
  • Medium: Standard display
  • Large: Larger display for projection or emphasis

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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.

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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