Examples of what pupils should know and be able to do
Understand that multiplication can be done in any order, for example 5 × 8 = 8 × 5.
Probing questions
Can you make up a problem that means you need to work out 20 ÷ 5 to solve it?
Can you tell me some numbers that will divide exactly by 2? by 5? by 10? How do you know?
What if pupils find this a barrier?
Give pupils a set of numbers that are related by multiplication and division facts along with the multiplication, division and equals signs. Ask them to form some multiplication and division statements. Ask them to match the ones that are linked in some way and to explain why.