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Classroom · Math · CCSS 3.NBT.A.3, 4.NBT.B.5, 5.NBT.B.5

worksheets for 3rd to 5th grade

Beyond the times tables: multiplying by 10, 100 and 1,000, then 2-digit and 3-digit numbers by 1 digit, and 2-digit by 2-digit, with area models, column practice and estimating to check. Every pack ends with an answer key.

Area model template

Blank area models to split any multiplication into easy parts.

Template(1 page, color)Ink saver (B&W)

What is in each pack

  1. 1. Learn itHow it works with a worked area model, then three to fill in.
  2. 2. ColumnsTwelve problems in columns (six for 2-digit by 2-digit, with room for partial products).
  3. 3. Skill pagePatterns with zeros, or estimate first and then find the exact answer.
  4. 4. Word problemsFour stories about shelves, buses, flights and bakeries.
  5. 5. Answer key and tipEvery answer on one page, plus a teaching tip for grown-ups.
Multiplying by 10 and 100 worksheet, page 1: how it works, then area modelsMultiplying by 10 and 100 worksheet, page 2: multiply in columns

How to teach multi-digit multiplication

  1. Know the facts. Multi-digit multiplication is built on the times tables. Quick facts make every step easier.
  2. Think in place value. 23 is 20 and 3. Multiply each part, then add the parts together.
  3. Draw the area model. It shows every partial product, so children see why the steps work.
  4. Line up the columns. Use squared paper so ones sit under ones and tens under tens.
  5. Estimate and check. Round first, solve, then compare. If the answer is far from the estimate, look again.

More math

Common questions

When do children learn multi-digit multiplication?

In the Common Core, 3rd graders multiply 1-digit numbers by multiples of 10. In 4th grade they multiply up to 4-digit numbers by 1-digit numbers and two 2-digit numbers, using place value and area models. In 5th grade they use the standard method fluently.

What is an area model?

A rectangle split into parts by place value. For 23 × 4, split 23 into 20 and 3, multiply each part by 4 (80 and 12), then add: 92. It shows why the standard method works.

Why estimate first?

An estimate tells you roughly what the answer should be. If 48 × 6 is about 50 × 6 = 300, an answer of 2,880 is clearly wrong.

Can I copy these worksheets for my class?

Yes. The PDFs are free to print and photocopy for classroom and home use, in color or in the black-and-white ink saver. Please link to this page rather than re-uploading the files.