Array Quilt

In math, we are beginning to understand how multiplication works through visual images such as arrays. Arrays are arranged in rows and columns containing equal amounts.

For example, this array shows two rows of four stars (or you could say four columns of two stars):

We will be making a classroom quilt and each student will contribute a special piece to make the quilt complete!

Your child(ren) will be bringing home a square of construction paper to design. The design must be in the format of an array. The number of rows and columns is up to you and your child(ren).

To make the array design, you and your child(ren) are encouraged to get creative! You may use stamps, stickers, drawings, magazine cutouts, lightweight 3-D objects, fabric, craft items, and so on.

As each hand-stitched quilt is unique and special in its design, so should the “Array Quilt” of our classroom. The design of your child’s square should reflect his/her personality and interests (cooking/food, sports, reading, music, toys, family, animals, etc.). There are many upcoming events on the calendar that could also be incorporated into this quilt (Inauguration, MLK Jr., Catholic Schools Week, Valentine’s Day, Presidents’ Day, etc.). Examples will be shown in class.

I am excited to hang up each unique quilt square so our complete quilt can be on display for Catholic Schools Week Open House on January 25, 2009. Take your time and enjoy this activity as a family. Please return the quilt square and accompanying questions anytime before Wednesday, January 21, 2009.

Here is how the quilt square will be assessed:

3 points for
each * / 2 points for
each * / 1 point for
each *
Accuracy / *The array correctly matches the information in “Write About It” / *The array partially matches the information in “Write About It” / *The design is not
that of an array
OR
*does not match the information in “Write About It”
Effort / *The design is clear, correct, and colorful. *The array was creatively designed using materials that are unique and interesting to the child.
*Turned in by 1/21/09 / *The array is correct, but difficult to read.
*It is colorful, and done with somecreative effort. / *The quilt square
is not colorful.
*The design of the array reflects minimal effort.
*Turned in after 1/21/09
“Write About It” / *Complete
*Turned in by 1/21/09 / *Incomplete
AND/OR
*turned in after 1/21/09

This project is worth 18 points.

  1. Describe how the items are arranged in your array. What counting pattern is shown by your array? How can this pattern be used to find the total number of items in your array?
  1. What is the total number of items in your array? Show how you can use addition to find out. Show how you can use multiplication to find out.
  1. Write a multiplication sentence to go with your array. Describe how the columns and rows are used to find the parts of a multiplication sentence.
  1. What type of story problem can be solved using this array? Write a story problem that could be solved using the array you made.
  1. Write the fact family shown by the array you made. Explain how the facts are related.