Array Builder: an arrays game for multiplication
Tap the dots to build arrays, and find every array for a number. A free arrays game for any device. Grades 2–4.
🧒 Kids: Tap a dot to build rows of dots. Can you build every array?
How to play
- Choose a mode: Build the array or Find every array.
- Build the array: you are asked for something like 4 × 6. Tap the dot 4 rows down and 6 columns across, then press Check.
- Rows go across and columns go down, so 4 × 6 means 4 rows of 6.
- Find every array: you are given a number like 12. Tap every array that has exactly 12 dots (2 × 6, 3 × 4, 4 × 3, 6 × 2).
- On a computer, move the mouse to preview an array before you click.
What your child practices
Arrays are the picture behind multiplication (3.OA.A.1) and the bridge to area and factors. Building 4 × 6 shows that multiplication is rows of equal groups; finding every array for 12 discovers its factor pairs, which leads to factors and multiples in grade 4.
Settings to try, by grade
- Grade 2: Build the array, arrays up to 5 × 5.
- Grade 3: Build the array with bigger rows, saying the multiplication each time.
- Grade 4: Find every array, to discover factor pairs and prime numbers.
- Any grade: a quick warm-up before the times tables.
Change one setting at a time. If your child wins or gets every answer right twice in a row, move up a step. If they miss more than three in a game, move back down for a few days. Wins should feel close but possible: that is when children stay keen and learn the most.
After the game
Ask your child to draw one of the arrays on squared paper and write its multiplication inside. Then turn the paper and write the turn-around. In grade 4, list every array for 12, 18 and 24 and compare: which number has the most? That leads into factors and multiples and the area model.
Tips for parents
- Ask “how many dots altogether?” after every array, and let your child skip count by rows.
- Point out turn-arounds: 3 × 4 and 4 × 3 have the same dots.
- In Find every array, guess first: which numbers have the most arrays?
- Pair it with the arrays lesson.
In the classroom
A good warm-up on the board: one child builds an array, the class says the multiplication and the total. Find every array is a natural way into factor pairs and prime numbers (a prime has only two arrays: 1 row and 1 column).
More multiplication games and practice
Games: Multiplication Race · Times Table Match · Multiplication Bingo · Times Table Blaster · all multiplication games · Times Table Blaster · all math games
Print it: multiplication arrays worksheet with an answer key, for practice away from the screen.
Practice: multiplication trainer · 1-minute speed test · multiplication quiz · how to learn the times tables
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Questions parents ask
What is an array in multiplication?
Objects arranged in equal rows and columns. 3 rows of 5 dots is the array for 3 × 5 = 15.
How do you play Array Builder?
Tap a dot to build an array from the top-left corner. Build the array you are asked for, or find every array for a number.
What grade is Array Builder for?
Grades 2 to 4: arrays in grade 2 and 3, and factor pairs in grade 4.
How does this game help with factors?
Every array for a number is a factor pair. 12 has arrays 2 × 6, 3 × 4, 4 × 3 and 6 × 2, so 2, 3, 4 and 6 are factors of 12.
Does it work on tablets?
Yes. Tap a dot to build the array; there is no dragging needed.