Functional Skills Maths: Multiplication (Level 3)

Multi-step problems, decimals and functional contexts

Multi-Step Multiplication

  • Some problems need two multiplications.
  • Read carefully — underline the key numbers and what they represent.
  • Example: 24 boxes per hour × 8 hours × 5 days = weekly total.

Working with Decimals

  • Ignore the decimal point and multiply as whole numbers.
  • Then put the decimal point back in the correct place.
  • Example: 1.8 × 15. Treat as 18 × 15 = 270. One decimal place → 27.0 = 27.

Functional Contexts

  • Area = length × width.
  • Total cost = price per unit × number of units.
  • Total pay = hourly rate × hours worked.

Worked Examples

Example 1: Weekly production

  1. Machine packs 24 boxes per hour.
  2. Runs 8 hours a day: 24 × 8 = 192 boxes per day.
  3. Runs 5 days: 192 × 5 = 960 boxes per week.
  4. Answer: 960 boxes.

Example 2: Worker's pay

  1. Rate: £9.80 per hour. Hours: 37.
  2. £9.80 × 37. Split: £10 × 37 = £370. Then subtract 0.20 × 37 = £7.40.
  3. £370 − £7.40 = £362.60.
  4. Answer: £362.60

Practice Questions

  • 24 × 15 = ?
    Hint: 24 × 10 = 240. 24 × 5 = 120. 240 + 120 = 360.
    Answer: 360
  • Area of rectangle 12m × 8.5m?
    Hint: 12 × 8 = 96. 12 × 0.5 = 6. 96 + 6 = 102.
    Answer: 102m²
  • Worker earns £10.50/hr, works 35 hours. Weekly wage?
    Hint: £10 × 35 = £350. £0.50 × 35 = £17.50. £350 + £17.50.
    Answer: £367.50
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