Students should know their multiplication facts by heart by the end of the fourth grade, according to most school curriculum's. The purpose behind this is to make simple math automatic, leaving time for the student to think about and complete more difficult problems. Here are some simple ideas to help teach your students the times tables and have fun at the same time.
Around the World with Multiplication
The game Around the World can be modified for almost any skill set that you are teaching. Every student in the class is to stand up. Choose one student to begin, and state a multiplication question. If the student gets the answer wrong, he has to sit down and the same question goes to the next student. This continues as you move around the classroom, until only one student is left standing.
As the students become more proficient with the multiplication tables, you may need to modify the game somewhat to prevent the game from lasting all day. Giving a time limit for a correct answer is a good way to eliminate more students as they become better with their facts.
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 using timed multiplication tests, you can 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 would motivate your students.
Other Ideas to Learn 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 complete. Face cards do not count unless you want to have the students learn times eleven, twelve and thirteen. 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 would prevent students from comparing themselves with other students, which would be helpful in an inclusion classroom.
Teaching your 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 your 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 the facts.
Read about more math lesson ideas, including information on how to teach students with a disability.
You may also be interested in more tips on teaching basic facts.
