Part A Write the multiplication expression shown by the model. Do not solve the problem.

Question

Explain the expression written in Part B. Include the final product and how it is shown with the model.

Answer 1

Part A:

The multiplication expression can be written as \( a \times b \), where \( a \) and \( b \) represent the quantities shown in the model.

Part B:

The expression \( a \times b \) represents the total number of items when you have \( a \) groups, each containing \( b \) items. The final product, which is the result of the multiplication, will give the total number of items across all groups.

In the model, this can be visually represented by arranging \( a \) rows of dots, with each row containing \( b \) dots. The total number of dots (or items) will equal the product \( a \times b \). If, for example, \( a \) is 3 and \( b \) is 4, the model would show 3 rows of 4 dots, resulting in a total of 12 dots, which reflects the multiplication expression \( 3 \times 4 = 12 \).