Let's break down the steps:

$8 \times 9 = (5 \times 9) + (3 \times 9)$

Now, calculate the parts:

$(5 \times 9) = 45 \quad \text{and} \quad (3 \times 9) = 27$

Add the two results:

$45 + 27 = 72$

So, the final result is:

$8 \times 9 = 72$

Would you like a more detailed breakdown, or do you have any questions?

Here are 5 related questions for practice:

1. What is $7 \times 9$?
2. Can you apply the same method to solve $6 \times 8$?
3. What is the sum of $50 + 25$?
4. How would you solve $8 \times 7$ using this breakdown method?
5. What is $9 \times 9$?

Tip: Breaking down complex multiplication into simpler parts is called the distributive property of multiplication!