4 times table with arrays and pictures

Quick answer

You can use arrays and pictures to show what 4 times table means by making groups of 4 items and counting them all together.

Learning outcome

By the end of this page, you will understand how to use arrays and pictures to show the 4 times table, and you will be able to solve 4 times table problems using groups of 4.

• You can make rows and columns of 4 items to show 4 x 1, 4 x 2, 4 x 3 and so on.
• You can count groups of 4 to find the answer to 4 times table questions.
• You can use pictures or dots to help you solve 4 times table problems.
• You can see how 4 times table works in real life, like when you have 4 legs on a chair or 4 wheels on a car.

Why this matters

Arrays and pictures help you understand what multiplication really means. When you see 4 groups of 3, you can count them easily and understand that 4 x 3 = 12. This helps you learn your times tables faster and remember them better.

Arrays are used in many places, like when you see a box of eggs with 4 rows and 6 columns, or when you count the legs of animals. Learning with pictures helps you see and feel the maths, which makes it easier to learn.

How it works

Arrays are like rows and columns of objects. To show 4 x 3, you can make 4 rows with 3 dots in each row. Then you count all the dots to find the answer. This is called repeated addition because you are adding 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 = 12.

Here’s how to do it step by step:

1. Draw or make rows of 4 items.
2. Count how many items are in each row.
3. Count how many rows there are.
4. Multiply the number of rows by the number of items in each row.

Examples you can see

Let’s look at the 4 times table using arrays and pictures:

Try it as a mini adventure

Imagine you are a space explorer and you find a strange alien planet. On this planet, there are 4-legged creatures. Each creature has 4 legs. You count 5 creatures. How many legs are there in total?

Let’s solve this with arrays:

1. Draw 5 rows of 4 dots (one for each leg).
2. Count all the dots.
3. Answer: 5 x 4 = 20 legs.

Try this with your own drawing or with real objects like toy animals or counters. How many legs would 3 creatures have? How many legs would 7 creatures have?

Common mistakes

• Mistake: Thinking 4 x 5 = 9 because you add 4 + 5 = 9.
  Why it happens: You are adding instead of multiplying.
  Fix: Remember that 4 x 5 means 4 groups of 5, so 5 + 5 + 5 + 5 = 20.
• Mistake: Counting the rows instead of the items in each row.
  Why it happens: You might get confused with the array layout.
  Fix: Count the items in one row first, then count how many rows there are.
• Mistake: Drawing arrays that are not the same size.
  Why it happens: You might not be careful about making equal groups.
  Fix: Make sure each row has the same number of items.

Parent and carer guide

As a parent or carer, you can help your child learn the 4 times table by:

• Using everyday objects like toys, pasta, or counters to make arrays.
• Playing a quick game: say a 4 times table question and ask your child to draw the array.
• Looking at the real world: count the legs on a table, or the wheels on a car.
• Encouraging your child to draw pictures or use dots to solve problems.
• Practising together with flashcards or online games that use arrays.

Remember: It’s okay if your child makes mistakes. They are learning and growing!

Practice questions

1. Draw an array for 4 x 3 and count the dots. What is the answer?
2. How many legs do 6 chairs have if each chair has 4 legs?
3. If you have 3 rows of 4 stars, how many stars are there?
4. What is 4 x 7?
5. Draw 4 rows of 5 dots. How many dots are there in total?

Answers:

1. 12 dots
2. 24 legs
3. 12 stars
4. 28
5. 20 dots

FAQ

What is an array in maths?

An array is a way of showing multiplication by arranging objects in rows and columns. For example, 4 x 3 can be shown as 4 rows with 3 dots in each row.

Why are arrays helpful for learning times tables?

Arrays help you see multiplication visually. You can count rows and columns to find the answer, which makes it easier to understand and remember.

Can I use anything to make arrays?

Yes! You can use anything you have around you like counters, blocks, toys, or even drawing dots on paper.

How can I help my child with the 4 times table at home?

You can make arrays with everyday items, play counting games, and use real-life examples like counting legs or wheels.

What comes after learning arrays for times tables?

After arrays, children often learn to use number lines, skip counting, and then memorise the facts. Arrays help build a strong foundation for all these steps.

Complete 4 times table facts