Distributive Property of Multiplication

The distributive property of multiplication lets you multiply a sum by multiplying each addend separately and then adding the products.

For example:  6(4+5) is the same as (6 x 4) + (6 x 5)  it all equals 54.

The Distributive Property of Multiplication is worth its weight in gold because:

• It allows students to solve multiplication problems that are otherwise too hard for them.
• It helps students to develop a better sense of numbers because it clearly illustrates that a number is equal to the sum of its parts.
• It helps students develop a more creative and flexible use of numbers through “number crunching”.
• It helps students to more fully understand the concept of multiplication.

Here are some example of how your kiddo might see it:

Next week's homework will have them practicing this concept. It will be due Monday, October 27th. Please let me know if you have any questions!

-Mrs. Milot