How Many Are There?

Spark curiosity with this FREE multiplication activity that helps students see addition as equal groups—and sets the stage for deeper learning.

This learning experience introduces students to the foundational idea of multiplication through equal groups and repeated addition. It is designed as an engaging entry point into your larger unit on multiplication and division.

What is Inside:

• Hands-on Exploration: Students investigate “How many hands are in the class?” and “How many counters are in the bag?” using drawings, models, and equations.
• Flexible Group Work: Activities encourage collaboration, discussion, and multiple strategies for counting and representing.
• KWL Reflection: Learners record what they already know and what they want to know about multiplication, setting the stage for deeper inquiry.
• Teacher Notes: Suggestions for using 60 counters (divisible by 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 10) to maximize regrouping opportunities.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Builds the bridge from addition to multiplication in a natural, inquiry-based way.
• Encourages student voice and choice in representing strategies.
• Provides a perfect warm-up for array models and more advanced multiplication concepts.

Connected Resource
This free activity is part of my comprehensive unit:[[ Multiplication & Division: Conceptual Learning Experiences](https://www.tes.com/teaching-resource/resource-13175658]
That package includes 7 complete lessons + student worksheets:

1. How many are there?
2. An “Array” Full of Stars
3. Terms or Factors? Sum or Product?
4. Hurray! It is working!
5. How many legs?
6. Let’s turn on the function machine!
7. Problem Solving Carousel

Need help?
If you are having difficulty with this file, please contact me at themathbridgebuilders@gmail.com