Adrienne is having a Multiplication Linky Party over at her blog. Since multiplication is a biggie in third grade, I just had to join. I am always looking for fresh, new ideas...and I love to share my ideas with others, as well!
When beginning multiplication, I begin with teaching my students about groups and arrays. We create groups and arrays out of a variety of items...marshmallows, m~n~m's, counters, etc. Vocabulary is an essential part, as well. So we add these words to our Word Wall.
Anchor charts are created together and then displayed on the wall. I created a little multiplication book freebie that you can find here if you haven't picked it up already.
When we begin memorizing the facts, we play a game called "SNAPS". Everyone stands behind his desk. I begin with the first person...I give them a fact. I start to snap my fingers. On the third snap, they must have said an answer. If not, they sit down and I go to the next student. Of course if they get the correct answer, they continue standing, and I go to the next student. Once I get around the room, I start over. This time they only get two snaps. Then if I get around the room again, I do one snap. They LOVE this!
Then of course there is the CeLeBrAtIoN for learning the facts...The Multiplication Sundae party.
This is a HUGE hit! You can find it here.
Now, if you want more ideas for multiplication...head on over to Adrienne's!
Math Blessings,
