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Mastering Multiplication: A Fun Guide to Multiplying 2-Digit Numbers for 4th Graders (and Curious Minds!)

Remember those times tables you practiced? Well, get ready to put them to work as we dive into the exciting world of multiplying two-digit numbers! Don't worry, it's like solving a puzzle, and we'll break it down into easy steps.

Why Learn This?

Imagine you're at a bake sale and need to figure out the cost of buying multiple cookies. Or maybe you're building a Lego tower and need to calculate how many bricks you'll need. Multiplying two-digit numbers helps you solve real-life problems quickly!

Let's Get Started!

We'll use the example of 36 x 27 from the Khan Academy video.

Step 1: Break It Down

Instead of tackling the entire problem at once, let's split it:

  • First, we'll multiply 36 x 7.
  • Then, we'll multiply 36 x 20.
  • Finally, we'll add the results together.

Step 2: Multiplying by the Ones Digit

  • 7 x 6 = 42: Write down the '2' and carry-over the '4' to the tens place.
  • 7 x 3 = 21: Add the carry-over: 21 + 4 = 25. Write down '25'.

So, 36 x 7 = 252

Step 3: Multiplying by the Tens Digit

  • Remember to add a '0' in the ones place because we're multiplying by 20, not just 2.
  • 2 x 6 = 12: Write down the '2' and carry-over the '1'.
  • 2 x 3 = 6: Add the carry-over: 6 + 1 = 7. Write down '7'.

So, 36 x 20 = 720

Step 4: The Grand Finale (Adding It Up!)

Now, let's add the results from Step 2 and Step 3:

252

+ 720

972

Congratulations! You just multiplied 36 x 27 and got 972!

Practice Makes Perfect!

The more you practice, the easier it becomes. Grab a pencil and paper, and try multiplying other two-digit numbers. You can even check your answers using a calculator.

Fun Fact!

Did you know that multiplication is just repeated addition? Try adding 36 to itself 27 times, and you'll get the same answer!

Keep Exploring!

Khan Academy has fantastic videos and exercises to help you become a multiplication master. Check out their 4th-grade math section for more practice and fun!

"Learning is more effective when it's fun!"

So, keep practicing, and soon you'll be multiplying two-digit numbers like a pro!

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