Array Builder

Build Your Multiplication Skills with Array Builder!

Get ready to become an expert builder! In this game, you’ll use your multiplication knowledge to create perfect arrays. You’ll be given a multiplication problem, like “4 x 5”, and your job is to “paint” the matching array on the grid.

An array is a fantastic way to see what multiplication actually looks like. By arranging items in neat rows and columns, you can easily see how multiplication is just repeated addition. Can you build the correct array for each problem?

Why is This Game Great for Learning?

“Array Builder” is a powerful visual tool that helps children move from simply memorizing times tables to truly understanding how multiplication works. It helps them to:

• Visualize Multiplication: Children can see that “3 x 4” isn’t just a random fact; it’s a rectangle made of 3 rows of 4 (or 4 columns of 3).
• Understand Repeated Addition: Building an array of 3 x 4 helps children see that it’s the same as adding “4 + 4 + 4”.
• Discover the Commutative Law: Players will quickly realise that a 3×4 array has the same total as a 4×3 array, visually proving that multiplication can be done in any order.
• Build a Foundation for Area: Creating these rectangles is a perfect introduction to the concept of finding the area of a shape, a key skill for later in their education.

For Teachers and Parents: Meeting Key Stage 1 National Curriculum Objectives

This game is perfectly aligned with the National Curriculum for maths, especially for children in Key Stage 1 and lower Key Stage 2.

• Year 1 Maths: The curriculum states that pupils should “solve one-step problems involving multiplication and division, by calculating the answer using concrete objects, pictorial representations and arrays.”
  • How this game helps: This game provides a dynamic, pictorial way for children to represent and solve multiplication problems using the array method.
• Year 2 Maths: Pupils are expected to “show that multiplication of two numbers can be done in any order (commutative)” and “calculate mathematical statements for multiplication within the multiplication tables and write them using the multiplication (×), division (÷) and equals (=) signs.”
  • How this game helps: “Array Builder” is the ideal tool for demonstrating the commutative law. Children can build a 2×5 array and a 5×2 array and see that both equal 10, cementing this important concept.

How to Use This Game

For Teachers:

• Interactive Whiteboard Introduction: Use the game to introduce the concept of arrays to the whole class. Build a few examples together before letting them try independently.
• Tablet Activity: A perfect task for children to work on individually or in pairs to practise their times tables visually.
• Challenge Question: Ask children, “Can you build this array in a different way?” to encourage them to explore the commutative law (e.g., turning a 3×4 array into a 4×3 array).

For Parents:

• Visual Homework: If your child is struggling to memorise their times tables, this game can provide that “lightbulb moment” by showing them what the numbers mean.
• Talk About the Arrays: Use the game as a starting point for conversation. “Look, 3 rows of 5 apples. Let’s count them in fives: 5, 10, 15. So 3 x 5 is 15!”
• Real-World Arrays: After playing, look for arrays around the house! An egg box (2×3 or 2×6), a chocolate bar, or window panes are all great real-world examples.