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Algebra 1

Using an Area Model

Algebra 1Using an Area Model
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Access the interactive simulator to begin this project.

In this activity, whenever you see 💬, stop and share your responses with your partner. If you have different responses, try to come to a consensus.

For 1 - 4, use the prompt and instructions below.

Suppose we want to find the product of 17 and 13 using an area model. Use the simulation screens labeled “Explore” and “Generic”. Note you can switch between using the toolbar located below the area model.
  1. Draw and label your partitions on the scaled area model below. A grid with dimensions labeled as 13 units wide and 17 units tall. There are three small rectangles on the top and three on the left side of the grid, sticking out from the main shape.
  2. Draw and label your partitions on the generic model below. A diagram with a large rectangle divided into four sections, two small rectangles above and to the left, one small slightly larger rectagle above the two small ones above and to the left. Lines seperate the single box from the smaller boxes on the top and to the left. The top line is green. The left line is blue.
  3. Discuss with your group: How does your area model compare to those in your group? What is the same? What is different? 💬
  4. Justify how you know your model represents 17x13. Does your area model represent 17✕13? How do you know? 💬
  5. Challenge yourself to work through levels 1-2 of the Area Model Numbers Game!
  6. What are three different ways you could partition 17?
  7. Write your own 2-digit times 2-digit multiplication problem that uses an area model, and find the total area.
  8. What is a convenient way to break up a multiplication problem into an area model, and why is it convenient for you?
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