Array Rods

Array Rods are a simple manipulative for students to learn about multiplication and division, including the different properties for multiplication. For example, the Distributive Property is illustrated in one of the attached pictures where students can easily manipulate 7x8 into different arrangments (7x1+7x7; 7x2+7x6; 7x3+7x5, etc.). This also helps students learn different ways to meaningfully memorize more difficult facts (i.e., realizing the 7s facts can be broken into 5s and 2s… 7x6 is 5x6 plus 2x6).