Students are expected to know their multiplication facts by the end of the fourth grade, according to most school curriculum's. The reason is to make simple math automatic, leaving time for the student to think about and complete more difficult problems. Many students struggle to memorize multiplication facts, though, so here are some simple ideas to help teach students their times tables.
Teach Multiplication with Games
The game Around the World can be modified for almost any skill set. Every student in the class stands up. One student begins and answers a multiplication question. If the student gets the answer wrong, he has to sit down and the same question goes to the next student. If he gets the answer correct, he remains standing and the next student gets a new question.This continues around the classroom until only one student is left standing.
As the students become more proficient with the multiplication tables, modify the game somewhat by giving a time limit for a correct answer. This will help answers become more automatic. Other games that teach multiplication include Bingo, Jeopardy and other basic games played frequently in the classroom, modified for multiplication.
Timed Multiplication Tests
Giving timed tests for multiplication is a popular method of quizzing students. There are several ways to do this. One of the best methods is to create ten question quizzes for each individual number. Starting with 0 and going up, each student has to pass with 100 percent before moving to the next number. After 5 numbers have been passed, give a twenty question mid-term test with mixed numbers that have already been passed. After all numbers through ten have been passed, give a final mixed test with as many questions as you think is appropriate to ensure the students know all the numbers.
When giving timed multiplication tests, use a reward system to motivate the students to complete each test. A box of stickers for students to pick from can be stuck on a chart as a visual motivation. Completing the mid-term test and the final test could earn a prize. A pizza party may be an idea as a whole class prize once everyone passes the final exam. Think creatively and find ideas that will motivate students.
Other Ideas to Teach the Multiplication Tables
Using a deck of cards, the top card is the number you multiply by. Then, time the student as you flip cards in the deck until every card is flipped. Face cards do not count unless you want to have the students learn the elevens, twelves and thirteens. Keeping an index card for each student with all the numbers is a way to keep track of each student’s progress, and gives students a challenge to beat their own times. This also prevents students from comparing themselves with other students, which is helpful in an inclusion classroom.
Teaching students the multiplication song would help audio learners. Adding movement to the song would in turn help tactile learners. Along those lines, you could teach students sign language for the numbers, and have them sign the multiplication tables with you.
It is important for all students to learn the multiplication tables, even though this may be difficult for many. Think about the learning styles in your classroom and come up with fun ways to encourage them to learn their multiplication facts.
Related Information:
How to Teach Division - Tips on teaching students division in a way that makes sense.
Get more math lesson ideas.
Teaching Students the Value of Pi - Celebrate Pi day with students and more fun ideas for teaching the value of Pi.
Tips on how to teach math to students with a disability.
Jennifer Wagaman - Jennifer is a mother of 2 and has both public, private and administrative experience in the education field.
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