Multiplying fractions is difficult to make hands-on. Many teachers simply don’t know how to use manipulatives to teach fraction multiplication in 4th and 5th grade! Using pattern blocks is a simple way to make it hands-on and make sure students develop conceptual understanding of fraction multiplication.

We often leave out that flexibility piece when thinking about multiplication facts because we think flexibility and speed don’t go together… students CAN be flexible in their thinking and still have automaticity with multiplication.