Area models are building blocks to more complicated multiplication and division. Use this lesson to refresh students on the relationship between multiplication and area to prepare them to use the area models strategy with larger numbers.

Students will begin to calculate volume of different rectangular prisms using base ten cubes and then transition to using the formula V = L x W x H. Students will then practice using the legendary fifth grade activity, Cootie Catchers.

Start a dialogue around area models! In this lesson, encourage students to ask questions as they multiply using area models. Use this lesson on its own or as support to the lesson Area Models and Multiplication.