1/2 taken 2/3 times is what my child naturally wants to do with the cross hatching 1/2 x 2/3 type problems. However IF the question was 1/2 of 2/3 then naturally one conceptualizes 2/3 first, then the 1/2. Is it really necessary for him to understand "of" means multiply?

Hi, Linda.

It is not necessary at this point that your son understands the 'of' as meaning multiplication. If he understands how to come to the solution by cross hatching, he will eventually understand why you need to multiply to get the result. If, however, he is totally lost in the concept, break it down to 'what is 1/2 of 2?' Here the of just tells him what he is splitting in half.

I hope that has addressed your question (if I am understanding your question correctionly). If not, feel free to email me back!

Enjoy your day!
Rachel