Long Multiplication — Year 5 Lesson Plan
National Curriculum: Mathematics — Multiplication and division: multiply numbers up to 4 digits by a one- or two-digit number using a formal written method, Year 5
Overview
Pupils learn the formal written method of long multiplication to multiply up to 4-digit numbers by 2-digit numbers. They develop understanding of why the method works through place value, and practise applying it fluently before solving multi-step problems.
Learning Objectives
- Multiply a 3-digit number by a 2-digit number using long multiplication.
- Understand the role of place value in the long multiplication method.
- Estimate products by rounding before calculating.
- Apply long multiplication to solve multi-step problems in context.
Key Vocabulary
Suggested Lesson Structure
Mental multiplication: multiply 3-digit numbers by single digits. Ask: 'How would you multiply 324 × 23 mentally?' Discuss the challenge and introduce the written method.
Model 324 × 23 step by step: (1) multiply 324 × 3, (2) write a placeholder 0 then multiply 324 × 20, (3) add the two partial products. Emphasise why the placeholder is needed (we are multiplying by 20, not 2). Link back to the grid method to show the same result.
Pupils work through three calculations together, checking with estimates. Focus on the placeholder and laying out the calculation clearly.
Pupils complete a set of long multiplication calculations, then apply the method to a two-step word problem involving area or cost.
Display a calculation with an error (missing placeholder). Pupils find and explain the mistake. Reinforce the importance of the placeholder zero.
Common Misconceptions
- Forgetting the placeholder zero when multiplying by the tens digit.
- Adding a carried digit to the wrong partial product.
- Not estimating first — pupils who estimate are more likely to spot errors.
Prior Knowledge
Pupils should already be able to:
- Fluency in times tables to 12 × 12.
- Ability to multiply by 10 and 100.
- Experience of short multiplication (up to 4-digit × 1-digit).
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