Here are some pictures from a practical maths activity involving the P6 and P5/6 classes. Pupils used base ten materials to create ‘area models’ which showed all the different parts of a multiplication calculation.

This model shows the calculation 23 x 37, split into: 20 x 30 = 600, 3 x 30 = 90, 20 x 7 = 140 and 3 x 7 = 21

By using the area model, pupils can really visualise the relative size of the different parts of the multiplication calculation. It also helps pupils for more complex maths which they will encounter at high school.

As you can see, using the materials collaboratively encourages pupils to share their mathematical thinking with others. This type of practical co-operative learning activity can help children develop a much deeper understanding of mathematical ideas than simply working individually on written tasks.