Math Heuristics for Problem Solving
Primary 3 Multiplication & Basic Model
What is Multiplication in Math?
Multiplication word problems involve finding the product of two or more numbers. The problem is presented in the form of a story or scenario that involves groups or sets of objects. The goal is to figure out how many objects are in total, given the number of groups and the number of objects in each group.
For example, a multiplication word problem might ask how many apples are in 5 baskets if each basket has 6 apples. The solution to this problem would be to multiply 5 (the number of baskets) by 6 (the number of apples in each basket) to get a total of 30 apples.
In general, multiplication word problems can involve any kind of object or situation where there are multiple groups or sets, such as groups of people, animals, or items. The key to solving these problems is to understand the relationship between the number of groups and the number of objects in each group, and then use multiplication to find the total number of objects.
How to Solve Multiplication Questions with Basic Model?
Let's take a look at this Primary 3 word problem example:
Bella has $18. She wants to buy 12 cupcakes that cost $3 each. How much more money does she need in order to buy the 12 cupcakes?
Identify the Concept
It is a multiplication question. To find the amount of money needed to buy 12 cupcakes, we need to add $3 12 times.
Workings Explained
Instead of adding 3 twelve times, we can multiply 3 by 12.
- The cost of 12 cupcakes is $36 (12 × $3 = $36).
Bella does not have enough money to buy 12 cupcakes. She only has part of the amount needed.
- To find the amount of money she needs, we will have to take the total amount needed to buy 12 cupcakes minus the amount she has ($36 – $18 = $18).
Bella needs $18 more to buy 12 cupcakes.