Array? Rows and Columns? Factors?

We kicked off our first math unit on multiplication today. We started using words like build an "array" that equals 12. How many "columns and rows" will be in your array? What are all the factors for 12?

Arrays can help your children develop concepts of multiplication and division. An array is a set of objects organized into equal groups. For example we say a two by two array equals four objects. In other words, there are two rows with two in each row. We built arrays in groups using ourselves as the manipulatives. Then, we moved to using cubes. Lastly, we drew picture models of the array. Arrays can help your children visualize and understand more complicated math operations. We use arrays many times as a tool in our multiplication and division studies this year.