Using Lattice Multiplication Post#3 Math 1510

        Lattice multiplication is a way of doing multiplication using a grid that looks similar to a lattice. It has been around for centuries and was first introduced in Europe in the early 1200's by Fibonacci. With practice this method can be quick and efficient in solving multiplication problems. When I first saw this method my daughter was in fourth grade and I wondered what in the world it was. I never took the time to find out so this chapter has really helped me to understand this method.
        Primary grade students have difficulty keeping the math columns aligned when they start to learn multiplication.  Lattice multiplication can help students who are struggling with this problem achieve success. By demonstrating the technique and process of this new math skill the students will be able to separate the multiplication from the addition in first filling in the lattice and then adding the contents. Some of the important points in this method are that it can be easily learned, keeps their work organized, and is diagnostic in that if they do get a wrong answer the student  can easily see where the mistake was made. This method breaks down the process into smaller steps which can help some students grasp the concept of multiplication easier because it is so visual. Here is how you use this method:

1. If you are multiplying two digits by two digits, you need a grid two squares across and two squares down. A three digit by two digit problem takes a two by three grid.

2. Divide each box diagonally from the upper right corner to the lower left corner. Start at the top left corner and write one of the numbers you are multiplying across the top edge of the grid ( around the outer edge, not inside the boxes), one digit per space. Write the second number down the right edge in the same manner.

3. In each box multiply the number at the top of the column with the number at the right of the row. Write the result in the corresponding box with the ones below the diagonal and the tens above the diagonal (if it is a single digit number, write "0" for the tens).

4. Add the numbers along each diagonal row from right to left and record the sums along the lower or left outer each. Carry the tens to the next diagonal when the sum is 10 or greater. Read your answer around the outer edge from top left to lower right.
        The only time consuming part of the lattice method is making the grid. The more activities the students do, the more proficient they will become at using this method in multiplying large numbers.

Lattice Multiplication

Strategies for Problem Solving #2 Math 1510

        There are a number of ways to teach math but the textbook should not be the only resource that we use. Projects, small groups, modeling, and investigation were some of the tools mentioned in the video I watched this week. Students learn in a variety of different ways so using different strategies in the classroom will help reach more children. All these different classroom strategies help the student find different solutions to different problems.
        In problem solving we are teaching our students to look for a solution.These are steps that children learn so that the can become successful in their problem solving strategies. First we want them to understand the problem by asking important questions like: What does the situation involve? What has to be determined? What are the key data and conditions? What are some assumptions? After asking these questions we have to develop a plan by finding out what strategies will be useful are there subproblems, should we estimate or calculate the problem, and what method of calculation should be used. Then it is time to implement the problem  using the strategy and finding the answer. Always remember to look back to make sure the interpretation is correct, the calculation is correct, ask yourself if the answer is reasonable, or if there is another way to solve the problem.
        Problem solving is one of the Mathematical Process Standards that start in prekindergarten and follow children through grade 12. These standards help to enable students to build mathematical knowledge through problem solving, solve problems that arise, apply and adapt  a variety of strategies to solve problems, and monitor and reflect on the process of solving mathematical problems. Teaching the students problem solving strategies helps them to better understand  the problem solving process. Here is a video on strategies for problem solving that I found fun to view.