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Where is multiples hiding in Scratch multiples catch game?

Catch numbers that are multiples of a chosen table.

Quick answer

In Scratch, you can create a "multiples catch" game where numbers that are multiples of a chosen times table fall from the sky, and you catch them with a basket. This helps you learn and spot multiples quickly and funnily!

Learning outcome

By the end of this page, you will be able to identify multiples of a chosen number and play a fun game in Scratch where you catch them. Success signs:
  • You can name the first 5 multiples of 2, 5, and 10
  • You can explain what a multiple is using examples
  • You can play a Scratch game that catches multiples
  • You can help a friend find multiples of a number

Why this matters

Multiples are super important in maths and in your daily life. When you count in groups, like 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, you're counting multiples of 2. You use multiples when you share food, count money, or even play games. Learning to spot multiples quickly helps you do mental maths faster and makes you better at puzzles and problem-solving. In Scratch, you can build a game that makes learning multiples more exciting and fun!

How it works

In Scratch, you can make a game where numbers (called multiples) fall from the top of the screen, and you have to catch them with a basket. You choose which times table you want to practice, like 3s or 5s. When a multiple of that number appears, you catch it. If you catch the right number, you get points. If you catch the wrong one, you lose points or the game ends. To make this game:
  1. Choose a times table (like 3s)
  2. Make numbers that are multiples of 3 appear on screen
  3. Make a basket that you can move left and right
  4. When a multiple of 3 hits the basket, it scores points
  5. When it misses, you lose points or the game ends

Examples you can see

Let’s say you choose the 4 times table. The multiples of 4 are:
  • 4
  • 8
  • 12
  • 16
  • 20
  • 24
  • 28
  • 32
  • 36
  • 40
In your Scratch game, these numbers would fall from the top of the screen. If you move your basket under the number 12, you catch it and get points. If you catch a number like 7 or 11, which are NOT multiples of 4, you lose points. Example with a drawing: Imagine you're catching numbers like 3, 6, 9, 12, 15 falling from the sky. You have a basket that you can move with the arrow keys. When 9 falls, you move your basket under it and catch it. You get 10 points for each catch.

Try it as a mini adventure

Adventure: The Multiples Mission You are a space explorer on a mission to collect space rocks that are multiples of 7. The rocks are falling from the sky in your spaceship’s cockpit. You must move your spaceship left and right to catch only the rocks that are multiples of 7. If you catch a rock that is NOT a multiple of 7, you lose a life!
  1. First time: The rock 7 falls. You catch it! +10 points!
  2. Second time: The rock 10 falls. You miss it. -1 life!
  3. Third time: The rock 14 falls. You catch it! +10 points!
  4. Fourth time: The rock 17 falls. You miss it. -1 life!
  5. Fifth time: The rock 21 falls. You catch it! +10 points!
Can you catch all the multiples of 7 before you run out of lives?

Common mistakes

  • Mistake: Thinking that 10 is a multiple of 3.
    Why it happens: Confusing multiplication with addition.
    Fix: Remember that multiples of 3 are 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, etc. 10 is not in this list.
  • Mistake: Catching the number 12 when you are looking for multiples of 5.
    Why it happens: Not checking if the number is really a multiple.
    Fix: Ask yourself: “Does 12 divide evenly by 5?” No, so it’s not a multiple of 5.
  • Mistake: Forgetting that 0 is a multiple of every number.
    Why it happens: Not understanding that any number times 0 is 0.
    Fix: Remember: 0 × 5 = 0, so 0 is a multiple of 5.

Parent and carer guide

Parents and carers can help by:
  • Practising multiples with their child at home. Use objects like counters or blocks to show groups of 5s or 10s.
  • Playing the Scratch game together. Try different times tables and see who catches the most multiples!
  • Encouraging their child to explain what a multiple is in their own words.
  • Helping with the Scratch game by testing if numbers are multiples or not.
  • Not worrying if the child makes mistakes. These are learning opportunities!
What to say:
  • “Can you tell me the multiples of 6?”
  • “Let’s count in 4s together.”
  • “Why do you think 15 is a multiple of 5?”
  • “What happens if we multiply 0 by 7?”
What not to do:
  • Don’t rush the child to get the right answer.
  • Don’t say “That’s wrong!” instead, ask “How can we check this?”
  • Don’t compare your child to others.

Practice questions

  1. What are the first 5 multiples of 3?
  2. Is 24 a multiple of 6? Why or why not?
  3. What is the 7th multiple of 4?
  4. Which number is NOT a multiple of 8: 16, 24, 32, 35?
  5. What is 0 times 9?
Answers:
  1. 3, 6, 9, 12, 15
  2. Yes, because 6 × 4 = 24
  3. 28
  4. 35 (because 35 ÷ 8 = 4.375, which is not a whole number)
  5. 0

FAQ

What is a multiple?

A multiple is a number you get when you multiply a number by another whole number. For example, 12 is a multiple of 3 because 3 × 4 = 12.

How do I know if a number is a multiple of 5?

A number is a multiple of 5 if it ends in 0 or 5. For example, 10, 15, 20, 25 are all multiples of 5.

Can I use Scratch to learn other times tables?

Yes! You can make a different game for each times table. Try 2s, 3s, 4s, and so on.

Why is it useful to know multiples?

Knowing multiples helps you do maths faster, like when you're sharing things, counting money, or solving puzzles.

What happens if I catch the wrong number in Scratch?

Usually, you lose points or lives, so it's important to know which numbers are multiples and which are not!