Using Arrays to Multiply

Understanding multiplication can be a big step for students in Year 1 and Year 2. One of the most effective strategies to introduce early multiplication is through the use of arrays. Arrays help students visualise equal groups and build a strong foundation for both repeated addition and multiplication facts. That’s why we’ve created a free printable worksheet that supports this important learning stage.

What’s Included in the Worksheet?

This two-page worksheet invites students to practise multiplication using four connected representations:

Array – a dot array to represent equal groups visually
Repeated Addition – writing out the number sentence using addition (e.g. 4 + 4 + 4)
Multiplication – writing the multiplication fact (e.g. 3 × 4)
Product – calculating the total

Each page contains a four-column table with a range of

multiplication tasks. The first row is completed to serve as an example, and the remaining rows each contain only one piece of information. Students use that single clue to figure out the remaining parts.

For example, they might be given an array and asked to write both the repeated addition and the multiplication sentence, along with the total. Or they might be given the repeated addition sentence and need to draw the array, write the multiplication sentence, and calculate the product.

Why Use Arrays?

Arrays are a powerful tool in early maths education because they:

Help students see the structure of multiplication
Build a conceptual link between repeated addition and multiplication
Encourage flexible thinking as students approach problems in different ways
Support visual learners by making abstract concepts more concrete

Perfect for Classroom or Home Use

This worksheet is ideal for:

Independent practice
Small group maths rotations
Homework or home learning tasks
Intervention sessions with students who need extra support

Whether you're introducing multiplication for the first time or revisiting it to build fluency, this worksheet will help reinforce key concepts in a student-friendly way.

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