The purpose of this activity is for students to write an equation with a symbol for the unknown to represent an array situation. Then they answer the question about the situation. Encourage students to use whatever strategy or representation feels appropriate to them. Given their prior experiences, they might represent the situation with an array and skip-count or consider equal groups in other ways to find the total.
In the Launch, it may be helpful to ask students to tell their partner a quick story or ask any questions about the context of the first problem. To ensure all students have access, it may also be helpful to display images for students to reference about coconut trees or Mexico.
MLR8 Discussion Supports. Synthesis: If necessary, invite students to repeat their question using mathematical language. For example, “¿Puedes decir eso de nuevo, pero usando la palabra arreglo?” // “Can you say that again, using the word array?”
Advances: Listening, Speaking
Action and Expression: Develop Expression and Communication. Activity: Invite students to show thinking using connecting cubes or counters.
Supports accessibility for: Conceptual Processing