Split a rectangle into rows and columns
Drawing rows of equal squares sets your child up for two big ideas in 3rd grade. Covering a rectangle with squares is how area is measured, and the same rows and columns form an array, the picture behind multiplication, so 3 rows of 4 squares shows 3 × 4 = 12. Drawing equal rows is harder than it looks and builds careful spatial reasoning along the way.
In this video, your child will learn to split a rectangle into rows and columns.
The lesson stops at each question for your child's answer.
Three problems, each a little harder
Each problem is worked step by step. Your child will solve the last one before Bobby shows how.
Example 1
How many squares are there?
Example 2
How many squares are there?
Your child's turn
3 rows and 5 columns: how many squares?
The three key steps
- 1Lines across make rows.
- 2Lines down make columns.
- 3Count the same-size squares.
Mistakes to listen for
- Drawing squares of different sizes, or rows with different numbers of squares, so the grid is not truly equal.
- Leaving gaps or overlaps when covering a rectangle with tiles, then counting as if it were covered exactly.
- Counting squares in no particular order, skipping some and counting others twice, instead of going row by row.
The lesson shows every step, so your child sees why it works. Read our parent's guide to splitting a rectangle into rows of squares →
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Questions parents ask
Does my child need an account to watch?
No. You can watch this on any device at any time. If your child would like to practice splitting a rectangle into rows of squares, and you'd like parent-friendly reports on your child's progress and growth, you can join Bobby's Math Club for unlimited free practice.
What happens when my child answers a question?
A right answer gets a cheer, and the lesson carries on. If your child isn't sure, they can tap "I don't know yet", and Bobby gives the answer and shows another example. Nothing is scored or stored.
Is this the same lesson that's on YouTube?
Yes. Here, the lesson stops at each question and waits for your child to answer. On YouTube, each question stays on screen for a few seconds, and then the lesson plays on.
Where can I learn more?
There's a short, kid-friendly lesson like this one for every Pre-K to 5th grade math skill, all in our video library. Our parent's guide to splitting a rectangle into rows of squares has more on where kids get stuck and how you can help at home. In the club, your child practices at just the right level, about five minutes a day, and you get parent-friendly reports as they grow. Learn more about how it works →
Practice splitting a rectangle into rows of squares
Questions at your child's level, about five minutes a day, on splitting a rectangle into rows of squares and whatever PK-5 skills they need to develop. Unlimited practice, free forever.
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