Grouping and Sharing (Multiplication and Division)

When we add the same number

When we add the same number multiple times, we can write it as multiplication. For example, 2+2+2+2 = 4×2 = 8. This means 4 groups of 2 gives us 8.

The × symbol means 'times'

The × symbol means 'times' or 'groups of'. When we write 3×4, it means 3 groups of 4 or 3 times 4, which equals 12.

The order of numbers in multiplication

The order of numbers in multiplication doesn't change the result. For example, 4×3 = 12 and 3×4 = 12. Both give the same answer.

Division means sharing things equally among

Division means sharing things equally among groups. If we have 12 flowers and want to make 3 equal bouquets, each bouquet will have 4 flowers.

Division can also mean making equal

Division can also mean making equal groups. If we have 15 beads and want groups of 5, we can make 3 groups.