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Hidden Multiplication

Multiplication hiding in model making parts

Parts repeated on both sides of a model show symmetry and multiplication.

Quick answer

Multiplication hiding in model making parts means that when you look closely at symmetrical models, you can see repeated groups or patterns that show multiplication.

Learning outcome

By the end of this page, you will be able to see how multiplication appears in symmetrical models and use this to solve simple multiplication problems. Success signs:
  • You can spot repeated parts in models and describe them as groups
  • You can count how many groups and how many items in each group
  • You can write multiplication sentences to match what you see
  • You can make your own symmetrical model and describe its multiplication pattern

Why this matters

Multiplication is all around us, even in the things we build and make. When you look at a model, you might see repeated parts that show multiplication. This helps you understand how multiplication works and makes you better at solving multiplication problems. It's also useful when you're building things, like LEGO models or craft projects, because you can quickly work out how many pieces you need.

How it works

Multiplication hiding in model making parts means:
  1. Look for parts that repeat on both sides of a model
  2. Count how many of these parts there are
  3. Count how many items are in each repeated part
  4. Write a multiplication sentence to show what you see

Examples you can see

Let's imagine you're looking at a butterfly model. A butterfly has two wings, and each wing has the same pattern of spots. Example 1: A butterfly with 3 spots on each wing.
  • There are 2 wings (groups)
  • Each wing has 3 spots (items in each group)
  • Multiplication sentence: 2 × 3 = 6
Example 2: A model of a car with 4 wheels.
  • There are 1 car (group)
  • Each car has 4 wheels (items in the group)
  • Multiplication sentence: 1 × 4 = 4
Example 3: A model of a house with 2 windows on each side.
  • There are 2 sides (groups)
  • Each side has 3 windows (items in each group)
  • Multiplication sentence: 2 × 3 = 6

Try it as a mini adventure

Let's go on a model-making adventure to find multiplication hiding in parts! Adventure: Find the Hidden Multiplication You are a model detective! Your mission is to find multiplication in different models around your house.
  1. Step 1: Look at a toy car. How many wheels does it have? How many wheels are there in total? Write a multiplication sentence.
  2. Step 2: Look at a butterfly or flower. How many wings or petals are there on each side? How many sides are there? Write a multiplication sentence.
  3. Step 3: Look at a building or house model. How many windows are there on each side? How many sides are there? Write a multiplication sentence.
  4. Step 4: Make your own model with repeated parts. Draw or build it and write the multiplication sentence.

Common mistakes

  • Mistake: Counting the same part twice
    Why it happens: When you see symmetry, it's easy to count one side and then count that same side again.
    Fix: Count each unique part only once, then multiply by how many times it repeats.
  • Mistake: Confusing the number of groups with the number in each group
    Why it happens: When you see 2 sides with 3 spots each, it's easy to say "2 × 3 = 5" instead of "2 × 3 = 6".
    Fix: Remember: number of groups × number in each group = total.
  • Mistake: Not seeing the pattern
    Why it happens: Some models have complex patterns that make it hard to see the repeated parts.
    Fix: Draw a picture of the model and circle the repeated parts to help you see the pattern.

Parent and carer guide

Parents and carers can help by:
  • Encouraging children to look for repeated parts in everyday objects
  • Using simple examples like a butterfly with 2 wings or a car with 4 wheels
  • Helping children write multiplication sentences after they spot the pattern
  • Practising with physical models like LEGO or craft items
  • Reinforcing that multiplication is just repeated addition
What to say:
  • "Can you find something that has the same thing on both sides?"
  • "How many of these parts do you see?"
  • "What multiplication sentence can you write for what you see?"
What not to worry about:
  • Children might make mistakes at first, but that's normal
  • It's okay if they need to draw or count to help them see the pattern
  • They don't need to know all multiplication facts yet

Practice questions

  1. How many legs does a spider have? How many legs are there in total if you see 3 spiders?
  2. A flower has 5 petals on each side. How many petals are there in total if there are 2 sides?
  3. A robot has 2 eyes. How many eyes are there if you see 4 robots?
  4. A house has 3 windows on each side. How many windows are there in total if there are 2 sides?
  5. A butterfly has 4 spots on each wing. How many spots are there in total if there are 2 wings?
Answers:
  1. 8 legs per spider, 3 spiders = 3 × 8 = 24 legs
  2. 5 petals × 2 sides = 10 petals
  3. 2 eyes × 4 robots = 8 eyes
  4. 3 windows × 2 sides = 6 windows
  5. 4 spots × 2 wings = 8 spots

FAQ

What is hidden multiplication?

Hidden multiplication is when you see repeated parts in models or objects that show a multiplication pattern. These patterns help you understand multiplication better.

How can I find hidden multiplication in my toys?

Look for things that have the same parts on both sides, like a butterfly with wings or a car with wheels. Count how many of each part and how many sides there are, then multiply.

Why is it helpful to see multiplication in models?

It helps you understand multiplication better because you can see it in real life. It also makes multiplication more fun and interesting.

Can I use this to solve bigger multiplication problems?

Yes! Once you understand how to see repeated parts, you can use this skill to solve bigger multiplication problems.

What if I don't see any repeated parts?

That's okay! Not all models have repeated parts. But when you do see them, it's a great way to learn multiplication.