1 Add equal groups
4 + 4 + 4 = 12
Make three groups with four objects in each. Add the groups together.
3 × 4 = 12Year 2
Multiplication • Primary Maths
Year 2 Multiplication
Start with equal groups, then connect pictures to multiplication facts. Use counters, small objects or the example below at home or in class.
3 × 4 = 12
Maths at a glance
See the Year 2 idea
Equal groups3 groups of 4 = 12
Array3 × 4 = 12
Skip count5, 10, 15, 20
Problem4 × 5 = 20
Try it together
Three ways to work out 3 × 4
3 groups of 4 = ?
2 Make an array
Arrange the objects in three rows of four. Each row has the same number.
3 rows × 4 in each row = 123 Use a fact you know
2 × 4 = 8; 8 + 4 = 12
Two groups of four make eight. Add one more group of four.
3 × 4 = 12For teachers and parents
Ask, “What does each number stand for?” Have your learner point to the three groups and the four objects in each group.
What if this feels too difficult?
Start with two equal groups. Count the objects in each, then count them altogether. Keep the groups small enough to check by counting.
Year 2 refers to the learning sequence on iLearn Maths. Year and grade labels differ around the world, so choose by the skills and examples that suit your learner.
Choose your practice
- Making equal groups: interactive lesson 43 · worksheet 43
- Repeated addition: interactive lesson 44 · worksheet 44
- Multiplication arrays: interactive lesson 45 · worksheet 45
The examples on this page are free to read. Full lesson and worksheet access depends on your account or subscription.
From the Year 2 pathway
Learning focus
Lesson 43Recognise and make equal groups
Lesson 44Connect equal groups with repeated addition
Lesson 45Represent multiplication using arrays
Lesson 46Understand and use the multiplication symbol
Lesson 50Connect skip counting in 2s, 5s and 10s with multiplication
Lesson 51Solve multiplication and division problems within 20
Key skills
What learners practise
make equal groupsconnect equal groups with repeated additionrepresent multiplication using arraysthe multiplication symbolconnect skip counting in 2s, 5s and 10s with multiplication
Ready to practise Year 2 multiplication?
Choose a lesson from the Year 2 learning pathway.