Primary 2 Multiplication and Division

Multiplication: count equal groups

Each tray has the same number of counters. Count the number of trays and the counters in each tray. Multiplication is a short way to write repeated addition.

Times tables: Become familiar with the 2, 3, 4, 5 and 10 times tables. Build equal groups and count in 2s, 3s, 4s, 5s or 10s to understand each fact.

Common mistake: Counting the trays as the total. Three trays means 3 groups; count four counters in every tray to find all the counters.

Division: share equally

Start with 12 counters and 3 empty trays. Give one counter to each tray in every round. When none remain, count the counters in one tray.

Common mistake: Putting all counters into one tray first. Share them one at a time to every tray so the three shares stay equal.

Grouping: when one counter is left over

Start with 13 counters. Put 3 counters in each group. Make one complete group at a time. When fewer than 3 counters remain, they are left over.

Common mistake: Counting the last counter as a fifth group. A group must have 3 counters; one counter is not a complete group, so it stays left over.

Printables

Use this printable times-table reference to practise counting equal groups of 2, 3, 4, 5 and 10.