Multiplication is an essential math skill that students need to learn. One way to teach this skill is by using area models. An area model is a visual representation of multiplication that helps students understand the relationship between the numbers and the product. Here are some activities to teach students to multiply 1-digit numbers by 3-digit or 4-digit numbers using area models.

Activity 1: Build a Model

In this activity, students will build their own area model using blocks or other manipulatives. First, they will choose a 3-digit or 4-digit number to multiply by a 1-digit number. Then, they will use the blocks to create a rectangle that represents the numbers. For example, if they chose to multiply 456 by 3, they would create a rectangle with 456 blocks in one row and 3 blocks in another row. Then, they could count the total number of blocks to find the product.

Activity 2: Cut and Paste

For this activity, students will use cut-out shapes to build an area model. Give each student a worksheet with a 3-digit or 4-digit number on the left side and a rectangle on the right side. The rectangle should be divided into 10 equal parts, with the length representing the 1-digit multiplier. Next, students will cut out 10 squares and paste them into the rectangle to represent the first digit of the 3-digit or 4-digit number. Then, they will cut out 10 more squares and paste them into the rectangle to represent the second digit, and so on until the entire number is represented. Finally, they can count the total number of squares to find the product.

Activity 3: Digit Cards

In this activity, students will use digit cards to build an area model. Give each student a set of digit cards (0-9) and a blank piece of paper. Then, ask them to choose a 3-digit or 4-digit number and a 1-digit multiplier. Next, they will use the digit cards to create a rectangle on the paper that represents the numbers. For example, if they chose to multiply 789 by 4, they would create a rectangle with 789 in one row and 4 in another row using the digit cards. Finally, they can count the total number of cards to find the product.

Activity 4: Interactive Model

For this activity, students will use an interactive area model on a computer or tablet. There are many free online tools that allow students to build and manipulate area models. Choose a tool that suits your students’ needs and provide them with an assignment to multiply a 1-digit number by a 3-digit or 4-digit number. They can use the tool to create the area model and find the product.

In conclusion, area models are a powerful tool for teaching multiplication. By using these activities, students can build their understanding of the relationship between numbers and products and develop fluency with multiplication. Remember to scaffold the activities to match your students’ skills and provide plenty of practice to reinforce the concept. With consistent practice, students can become confident problem-solvers and math experts.