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Maths In Games

LEGO game maths: arrays and multiplication

Use age-appropriate, adult-approved play examples to use brick rows and columns for multiplication.

Quick answer

LEGO bricks help you understand multiplication by making arrays – rows and columns of bricks. You can count how many bricks are in each row, how many rows there are, and multiply them to find the total.

Learning outcome

By the end of this page, you will understand how to use LEGO bricks to show multiplication as rows and columns, and you will be able to solve multiplication problems by counting arrays. Success signs:
  • You can build a LEGO array for any multiplication problem
  • You can count rows and columns to find the total number of bricks
  • You can use arrays to solve multiplication word problems
  • You can explain how arrays show multiplication

Why this matters

Arrays are a powerful way to understand multiplication. When you build with LEGO bricks, you're not just playing – you're learning how numbers work together. This skill helps you:
  • Solve multiplication problems quickly
  • Understand how multiplication connects to real life
  • Build a strong foundation for more advanced maths
  • Use LEGO bricks in creative and educational ways

How it works

Multiplication with LEGO bricks is all about making equal groups in rows and columns.
  1. Start with a number of bricks (for example, 6 bricks)
  2. Decide how many rows you want (for example, 2 rows)
  3. Put the bricks into equal rows
  4. Count how many bricks are in each row
  5. Multiply rows × bricks per row = total bricks

Examples you can see

Let's imagine you're building a LEGO spaceship. You want to make a base with 3 rows of bricks, and each row has 4 bricks.
Rows Bricks per row Total bricks
3 4 12
This is the same as 3 × 4 = 12. You can also make a LEGO wall with 5 rows and 6 bricks in each row:
Rows Bricks per row Total bricks
5 6 30
So 5 × 6 = 30. Try building these arrays with your own LEGO bricks – it's like making a math picture!

Try it as a mini adventure

LEGO Array Quest: Build Your Own Space Station You are an astronaut building a space station using only LEGO bricks. You need to plan how many bricks you'll use for each part. 1st time: You want to make a roof with 4 rows of 3 bricks. How many bricks do you need? 2nd time: You want to make a wall with 6 rows of 5 bricks. How many bricks do you need? 3rd time: You want to make a door with 2 rows of 7 bricks. How many bricks do you need? 4th time: You want to make a window with 3 rows of 8 bricks. How many bricks do you need? 5th time: You want to make a base with 5 rows of 4 bricks. How many bricks do you need? Can you count and write the multiplication for each part?

Common mistakes

  • Mistake: Thinking that 3 × 4 = 12, but forgetting to check if the rows are equal.
    Why it happens: Not making sure each row has the same number of bricks.
    Fix: Count each row to make sure they're the same.
  • Mistake: Counting bricks in the wrong direction (columns instead of rows).
    Why it happens: Confusing which direction is the row and which is the column.
    Fix: Decide which way is the row (horizontal line) and which is the column (vertical line).
  • Mistake: Adding instead of multiplying.
    Why it happens: Not understanding that arrays show groups.
    Fix: Use repeated addition to check: 3 rows of 4 bricks = 4 + 4 + 4 = 12.

Parent and carer guide

Helping your child with arrays is easy and fun! Here are 5 simple ways to support them:
  1. Ask questions: "How many rows do you see?" or "How many bricks are in each row?"
  2. Build together: Make arrays with your child and count the bricks together.
  3. Use real-life examples: "If you have 3 trays and each tray has 4 apples, how many apples do you have?"
  4. Play games: Make a game where you race to build arrays for multiplication facts.
  5. Encourage drawing: Let your child draw their arrays on paper to match their LEGO builds.

Practice questions

  1. How many bricks are in 2 rows of 5 bricks?
  2. How many bricks are in 4 rows of 3 bricks?
  3. How many bricks are in 6 rows of 2 bricks?
  4. How many bricks are in 3 rows of 7 bricks?
  5. How many bricks are in 5 rows of 4 bricks?
Answers:
  1. 2 × 5 = 10
  2. 4 × 3 = 12
  3. 6 × 2 = 12
  4. 3 × 7 = 21
  5. 5 × 4 = 20

FAQ

What is an array in maths?

An array is a way to show multiplication using rows and columns of objects. For example, 3 rows of 4 bricks make an array that shows 3 × 4 = 12.

Why do arrays help with multiplication?

Arrays help because they show equal groups in a clear way. You can see how many rows there are and how many items are in each row, which makes multiplication easy to understand.

Can I use arrays with any number?

Yes! You can make arrays with any numbers. For example, 7 rows of 8 bricks make 7 × 8 = 56 bricks.

How can I make arrays with LEGO bricks?

Place your LEGO bricks in equal rows and columns. For example, 4 rows with 5 bricks in each row makes an array showing 4 × 5 = 20.

Can arrays be used for other maths?

Yes! Arrays help with division too. If you know the total and the number of rows, you can find how many bricks are in each row.