CCSS.Math.Content.4.OA.A.2
The standard
Multiply or divide to solve word problems involving multiplicative comparison, e.g., by using drawings and equations with a symbol for the unknown number to represent the problem, distinguishing multiplicative comparison from additive comparison.
Common Core State Standards for Mathematics · Operations and Algebraic Thinking
What this standard means
Students need to read comparison word problems and decide whether the situation means “times as many” or “how many times as many.” They should model the problem with a drawing, tape diagram, or equation using a symbol for the unknown, then solve with multiplication or division.
Mastery looks like choosing the right operation and explaining why the comparison is multiplicative, not additive. Students often get stuck on phrases like “3 more than” versus “3 times as many,” or they multiply every number they see without thinking about the relationship.
Ways to teach it
- Use connecting cubes to build one train, then build another train 4 times as long and write the matching equation.
- Ask students to explain the difference between “8 more than” and “8 times as many” using two number examples.
- Show three word problems and have students label each as additive comparison or multiplicative comparison before solving one.
- Use grocery prices, such as one snack costing 3 times another, and ask students to find the missing price.
Plan a lesson for CCSS.Math.Content.4.OA.A.2
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