Students will begin by discussing multiplication as equal groups of things. They will provide examples of “things” and “groups”. I will give kids some things to work with: centimeter cubes, pennies, beans; and, some containers in which to place those things: plastic bowls, coffee cans, circles on paper. Take the time to have kids do this. Sixth-graders need this time. Have them think about it – all aspects of it: things, groups, equal groups – write about it, and explain it. Students should include drawings in their writing – what are the images that they are building in their heads as they work through these simple examples?
It's All About The Math 