Area: Mathematics
Strategy: Bent Finger Strategy (multiples of 9)
Appropriate Grade Level: 3-12
Procedures/Steps:
1. Hold your hands in front of you with your palms facing down. Spread out your
fingers and number each finger from left to right.
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2. For 4x9bbend your fourth finger down. (5 X 9 would be the fifth finger etc.)
3. Count the digits to the left of the bent finger (you have 3 fingers in front of the bent
finger)
4. Next count the digits to the right of the bent finger (you have 6 fingers after the bent
finger)
5. The two numbers are the digits of the product 4x9. Giving you the answer of 36
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Comments and/or tips:
-This technique works for all numbers being multiplied by 9 up to 10.
- The two numbers in the product will always add up to 9
(9x3=27, 2+7=9) (9x7=63, 6+3=9)
-Remember to begin counting on the left hand starting with the pinky finger
Source:
Mastropieri, M.A. & Scruggs, T.E. (2007). The inclusive classroom:
Strategies for effective instruction (4th ed.).Upper Saddle River,
NJ: Prentice-Hall. pg 340, 2007)
Area: Mathematics