Understanding Place Value Patterns
Did you know multiplication follows beautiful patterns when we change place values?
When we multiply numbers by 10, 100, or 1000, we're not just adding zeros - we're shifting the place values of all digits! This pattern helps us solve big multiplication problems easily.
How Place Value Patterns Work
1️⃣ Spot the base number (like 3 × 4 = 12)
2️⃣ Multiply by 10: Each digit moves one place left (3 × 40 = 120)
3️⃣ Multiply by 100: Each digit moves two places left (3 × 400 = 1,200)
Let's Explore with Examples
Example 1: The Growing Pattern
Click the numbers to see the pattern:
3 × 4 = 12
3 × 40 = 120
3 × 400 = 1,200
3 × 4,000 = 12,000
3 × 40,000 = 120,000
Click any equation to see how place values change!
Example 2: Shape Multiplication
Each shape represents a value. Watch how multiplication changes them!
× 10 =
× 10 =
See how the value grows while the shape stays the same? That's place value magic!
Parent Tips 🌟
- Play "What's Next?" - Start a pattern (5, 50, 500) and ask your child to continue it.
- Use money - Show how 1 dime × 10 = 10 dimes = $1, then 100 dimes = $10.
- Create a place value chart - Use sticky notes to physically move digits left when multiplying by 10, 100, etc.