Multiply Multi-Digit Whole Numbers Lesson Plan

Overview

Ever wondered how to teach multi-digit multiplication of whole numbers in an engaging way to your 5th-grade students?

In this lesson plan, students will learn about multiplying multi-digit whole numbers using the standard algorithm and their real-life applications. Through artistic, interactive guided notes, check for understanding, practice activities like a doodle & color by number activity, and a maze worksheet, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of multi-digit multiplication.

The lesson ends with a real-life example that explores how multi-digit multiplication of whole numbers is used in practical, everyday situations such as order purchases, merchandise organization. Then, they reflect on their learning and mastery of this topic through self assessments and short prompts.

Get the Lesson Materials

Multi Digit Multiplication Whole Numbers Guided Notes with Doodles Sketch Notes

Multi Digit Multiplication Whole Numbers Guided Notes with Doodles Sketch Notes

$4.25

Buy on TPT

Learning Objectives

After this lesson, students will be able to use the standard algorithm to:

  • Multiply two-digit numbers by one-digit numbers

  • Multiply two-digit numbers by two-digit numbers

  • Multiply three-digit numbers by one-digit numbers

  • Multiply three-digit numbers by two-digit numbers

Prerequisites

Before this lesson, students should be familiar with:

  • Basic understanding of regrouping or carrying over in addition and subtraction

Key Vocabulary

  • Multiply

  • Multi-Digit

  • Whole Numbers

  • Product

Procedure

Introduction

As a hook, ask students why knowing how to multiply multi-digit whole numbers is important in everyday life. Refer to the last page of the guided notes as well as the FAQs below for ideas.

Use the first page of the guided notes to introduce multiplying 2-digit numbers by 1-digit numbers. Walk through the steps involved in this multiplication process while students fill in the blanks on their guided notes (pg. 1), emphasizingƒsetting up the problem by stacking the numbers to the right. Model the first two or three examples on the page so they see how to use the steps. Students will then see how to multiple 3-digit numbers by 2-digit numbers. Model the multiplication process using examples and emphasize the significance of placing zeroes when moving to the next place value.

Use the second page of the guided notes to allow students to practice how to use the standard algorithm to multiple whole numbers. There are 3 levels of practice that increases in difficulty. Level 1 contains multiplication of 2-digit by 1-digit numbers. Level 2 contains multiplication of 2-digit by 2-digit numbers. Level 3 contains multiplication multiplication of 3-digit by 2-digit numbers.

Based on student responses, reteach concepts that students need extra help with. If your class has a wide range of proficiency levels, you can pull out students for reteaching, and have more advanced students begin work on the practice exercises.

Practice

Continue with the third page of the guided notes for a fun maze activity! Students will solve multi-digit multiplication problems to escape the maze. Walk around to answer student questions.

Then, use the fourth page of the guided notes for a fun color by number activity. Students solve math problems to unlock colors to fill in an image. Fast finishers can also be assigned this activity for extra practice. Alternatively, you can assign it as homework for the remainder of the class.

Real-Life Application

Use the last page of the guided notes, called real life applications, to bring the class back together, and introduce the concept of using multidigit multiplication in real-world scenarios. Students read about how it can be used in calculating the total cost of purchasing multiple items at a store, determining the area of a rectangular garden, or organizing merchandise in a factory. Then, they reflect on their learning and confidence about this math topic.

Extensions

Additional Self-Checking Digital Practice

If you’re looking for digital practice for multiplying whole numbers, 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:

Additional Print Practice

A fun, no-prep way to practice multiplying whole numbers is Doodle Math — they’re a fresh take on color by number or color by code. It includes multiple levels of practice, perfect for a review day or sub plan.

Here are 1 activity to try:

FAQs

Want more ideas and freebies?

Get my free resource library with digital & print activities—plus tips over email.

Join for free resources →