Multiplication Equation as Comparison Lesson Plan

Introduction

As a hook, ask students if they have ever compared the number of items one person has to the number another person has—for example, “If Sarah has 3 times as many apples as Jake, how many apples does Sarah have?” Refer to the real-life examples on the last page of the guided notes as well as the FAQs below for additional ideas to spark student interest and connect to prior knowledge.

Use the first page of the guided notes to introduce the concept of multiplication as a comparison. Begin by explaining that multiplication can be used to show how one quantity is larger than another by a certain number of times. Walk through the key points: identifying when a multiplication equation represents a comparison, understanding the meaning of phrases like “times as many,” and translating comparison statements into multiplication equations. Use the checks for understanding on this page to verify that students can recognize multiplicative comparisons and write corresponding equations. Refer to the FAQ below for guidance on explaining common misconceptions, such as confusing additive and multiplicative comparisons.

Use the second page of the guided notes to deepen understanding by working through examples of solving multiplication equations as comparisons. Show students how to interpret each part of the equation in context and solve word problems that involve comparing quantities multiplicatively. Highlight strategies for determining which quantity is the “multiplied” one and which is the reference quantity, emphasizing vocabulary such as “times as many.” Use the embedded questions on the notes page to assess student comprehension and to clarify misunderstandings immediately. Refer to the FAQ below for suggestions on addressing typical student questions, including how to handle reversed order in comparison statements.

Based on student responses during these initial guided notes and checks for understanding, reteach specific concepts that students find challenging—for example, distinguishing between multiplication as repeated addition versus multiplication as comparison. If your class shows a wide range of proficiency, consider pulling aside students who need extra support for targeted reteaching, while allowing students who grasp the concepts quickly to begin exploring the practice exercises. This ensures all learners remain engaged and appropriately challenged from the start of the lesson.

Practice

Have students practice multiplication as a comparison using the color by code worksheet activity. Walk around to answer student questions.

Fast finishers can dive into the maze and problem sets activity for extra practice. You can assign it as homework for the remainder of the class.

Real-Life Application

Bring the class back together, and introduce the concept of how multiplication as a comparison is used in everyday situations, such as comparing quantities, prices, or measurements. For example, explain how a recipe might need 3 times as many cups of flour as sugar or how one store’s price is 4 times higher than another’s. This helps students see the value of understanding multiplication equations as comparisons in real-life problem solving. Refer to the FAQ for more ideas on how to teach it!

Extensions

Additional Self-Checking Digital Practice

If you’re looking for digital practice for multiplication as comparison, try my Pixel Art activities in Google Sheets. Every answer is automatically checked, and correct answers unlock parts of a mystery picture. It’s incredibly fun, and a powerful tool for differentiation.

Here’s 1 activity to explore:

• Multiplicative Comparison Word Problems Digital Pixel Art 4th Grade 4.OA.A.2