Mississippi Math 3.OA.4

Math3rd GradeOperations and Algebraic Thinking (OA) Represent and Solve Problems Involving Multiplication and Division

The Standard

Determine the unknown whole number in a multiplication or division equation relating three whole numbers, with factors 0-10. For example, determine the unknown number that makes the equation true in each of the equations 8 × ? = 48, 5 = ? ÷ 3, 6 × 6 = ?.

2025 Mississippi College- and Career-Readiness Standards for Mathematics · The content within this grade level is centered on the mathematics domains of Operations and Algebraic Thinking (Grades K-5), Numbers and Operations in Base Ten (Grades K-5), Numbers and Operations—Fractions (Grades 3-5), Measurement and Data (Grades K-5), and Geometry (Grades K-8). Instruction in these domains should be designed to expose students to experiences that reflect the value of mathematics, enhance students' confidence in their ability to do mathematics, and help students communicate and reason mathematically.

Teacher's field guide

What This Standard Means

What Students Need to Do: Find the missing number in a multiplication or division equation. Use equal groups or a related fact to check that the completed equation is true.
What Mastery Looks Like: A student fills in 6 for 8 × ? = 48 and 15 for 5 = ? ÷ 3. They check both answers by replacing the blank and reading the whole equation.
Common Misconceptions: Students may add 8 and 48 instead of finding the missing factor. They may read 5 = ? ÷ 3 as 5 ÷ 3 = ?, ignoring where the blank sits.
How to Assess It: Give students 7 × ? = 42 and 4 = ? ÷ 3. Ask them to fill each blank and write a related fact that checks one answer.

Lesson moves

Ways to Teach It

Give pairs 24 counters and four cups; have them share the counters equally and complete 4 × ? = 24 and 24 ÷ 4 = ?.
Ask, “Why does 5 = ? ÷ 3 need 15 in the blank?” Have students sketch equal groups to explain.
Deal cards labeled 6, 8, and 48; students write four true multiplication or division equations, leaving one number blank in each.
Tell students 30 pencils go into an unknown number of cups, with five pencils per cup; have them solve 30 ÷ ? = 5.

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