reSolve: Multiplication: Cartesian Product

This sequence of two lessons introduces the idea of multiplication as a Cartesian product, using the language of 'for each'. Students learn to use a tree diagram to find the number of possible combinations that can be made in an animal mix-and-match book. They learn how a simpler problem can be used to help solve a larger, more complex problem. Students then design an avatar that has two or three different features and work as a class to find the total number of possible avatars. They look at how all combinations can be represented as an array and learn how to create a tree diagram. Each lesson is outlined in detail including curriculum links, vocabulary, materials needed, sample answers, discussion points and student resources. This sequence is part of the reSolve: Mathematics by Inquiry program.