Area is how many squares cover a shape. A rectangle with 3 rows of 5 squares has an area of 3 × 5 = 15.
Worked example
How many squares cover this rectangle? That's its area.
Answer:20
The rectangle has 4 rows of 5 squares. 4 × 5 = 20 squares. Multiplying is a quick way to count them all.
For grown-ups: Area as unit squares; area by multiplying; distributive property in area. Below: three problems to try with the worked answers, and a free printable sheet. Children can practise the same skill as a game, with no sign-up and no ads.
CCSS 3.MD.C.5–7
What this practises, for teachers
Practices area as unit squares; area by multiplying; distributive property in area (3.MD.C.5–7). A printable sheet with its answer key, worked answers on the page, no accounts.