Partitioning — Multiply & Divide Pathway

Using partitioning for multiplication

  • Partitioning means splitting a number into parts.
  • Split by place value: hundreds, tens, ones.
  • Multiply each part, then add them all up.
  • This works for any size of number.

Example: 47 x 6

  1. Step 1: Partition 47 into 40 + 7.
  2. Step 2: 40 x 6 = 240.
  3. Step 3: 7 x 6 = 42.
  4. Step 4: 240 + 42 = 282.

Your turn

  • Try: 53 x 4.
  • Partition: 50 + 3.
  • 50 x 4 = 200. And 3 x 4 = 12.
  • Add: 200 + 12 = 212.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Splitting the number incorrectly. Partition by place value: 47 = 40 + 7, not 4 + 7.
  • Forgetting to multiply both parts. You need to multiply the tens AND the ones.

Real-Life Example

A charity walk has 47 walkers who each raise 6 pounds. 47 x 6: (40 x 6) + (7 x 6) = 240 + 42 = 282 pounds raised.

Extra Support Hints

  • Write the partition clearly: 47 = 40 + 7, then multiply each part.
  • Add the parts at the end and check the answer is sensible.
Start the interactive Partitioning lesson →