Title of Book: Sea Squares
Author: Joy N. Hulme
Publisher: Hyperion Paperbacks for Children
ISBN: 1562825208
Grade Levels for Recommended Use: 3-4
TEKS
3.4(F) recall facts to multiply up to 10 by 10 with automaticity and recall the corresponding
division facts
3.5(C) describe a multiplication expression as a comparison such as 3 x 24 represents 3 times as
much as 24
4.4(C) represent the product of 2 two-digit numbers using arrays, area models, or equations,
including perfect squares through 15 by 15
Brief Summary:
This book introduces multiplication by taking the reader to the creatures of the sea. The reader
begins with one whale and eventually ends with ten squids, each time squaring the number to
achieve its product. Although the concept can be directed towards multiplication, this book is
also great for repeated addition.
Materials needed:
Paper, crayons, and pencil *optional cut-outs of the animals mentioned
Suggested Activity:
Creating a picture book illustrating the perfect squares up to 10
1. Before the reading, review the basic multiplication facts whose products are perfect
squares. 1x1, 2x2, 3x3, etc.
2. Begin the lesson by reading the story “Sea Squares”. Be sure to pause after every new set
of numbers is introduced and recite the squared number with the students. *A good
strategy would be to write down the numbers on a white board or an easel for students to
follow along.
3. Optional step: Beforehand, create simple cut-outs of the animals or plants mentioned in
the book. As each new one is introduced, either hold up or place the pictures on board so
students can follow along.
4. After reading the story, give each student six sheets of paper which they will fold in half
to create a booklet.
5. Ask the students to decorate the front of the page as they like.
6. Each page after that, the students will illustrate the book the just read. Make sure to
make clear that they will draw out the correct number of animals along with the
corresponding product. On the bottom of each page they will also write out the
multiplication fact (4x4=16).
7. *If students are more advanced, they can create their own images instead of those
illustrated from the book. They can draw out 3 cookies with 3 chocolate chips each or 6
shirts with 6 buttons each. Students can definitely get creative!
8. Have students share their newly created booklets with members in their tables.
9. End the lesson by reviewing the multiplication facts that were practiced at the beginning
of the lesson.
Adapted by Genelle Fernandez, 2013