Visually Tackle Basic Multiplication with the Area Model
Are you ready for a visual look into the world of basic multiplication? The area model is a visually appealing method for basic multiplication that can help make the process easier to understand. With the area model, we will be using colored blocks to perform basic multiplication & will witness patterns emerge right before our eyes. Don't worry if you're not sure what you're looking at, the point is to challenge yourself to think outside the box & explore.
Take a look at this animated gif I made. It shows the basic multiplication of two integers, 22 & 31, using the area model. As you watch it, I encourage you to share what you notice & what you wonder about the animated gif including its components/pieces in the comments below.
As you continue to observe this gif, consider the following questions:
What patterns or structures do you see in the arrangement of the colored blocks?
How do the blocks relate to the math itself?
What do the GREEN blocks represent in the area model? What do the BLUE blocks represent? What do the YELLOW blocks represent?
How do the blocks interact to create the final product?
By using the area model & visualizing multiplication with colored blocks, we can see the patterns & structure of the process in a way that is easy to understand. Remember, the goal is to foster curiosity & encourage exploration. So, don't be afraid to experiment & have fun with it. Happy multiplying!
DEJA VU: Wait - have we seen the area model before? Check out Mister Marx’s The Art of Multiplying Binomials with the Area Model: A Colorful Journey to learn how to multiply binomials using the area model.
