Many math concepts and operations require a strong understanding of multiplication, including:
- Algebra: Students need to be able to manipulate and solve algebraic equations that contain multiplication.
- Long division: Multiplication is a key component in accurately dividing larger numbers.
- Fractions: Understanding multiplication is essential for working with fractions and finding common denominators.
- Geometry: Multiplication is used frequently in geometry when finding the area or volume of shapes and figures.
- Ratios and Proportions: Multiplication is used in solving ratios and proportions to find missing values.
- Probability: In probability, students use multiplication to find the likelihood of certain events happening.
- Scientific Notation: Multiplication is required when working with numbers in scientific notation.
A student's ability to recall and apply multiplication facts accurately and quickly can have a significant impact on their performance in math. When students have a strong foundation in multiplication, they are able to perform more complex math operations such as long division and algebraic equations with ease. Furthermore, having good multiplication skills enables students to perform mental math, saving time and increasing their efficiency in solving mathematical problems. On the other hand, if students struggle with recall of multiplication facts, it can hinder their ability to perform well in higher-level math and lead to frustration and decreased confidence.
From my experience as a middle school teacher, students that devote the time to memorize their multiplication facts DO demonstrate an increase in their confidence and math-esteem (yes, this is a thing). They are more eager to answer questions and participate in class, not to mention they take more risks! *happy teacher moment*
So, if your student is still struggling to memorize their multiplications facts, here are a few tips on how to help them turn this math struggle into a strength:
- Practice regularly: I saw this all the time - "Practice is the secret sauce to being more successful at math." Consistent practice is far too often underrated when it comes to math. So, practice, practice, practice and even when you think they've practice enough, practice some more. Regular and consistent practice is essential for memorization.
- Use mnemonics: Mnemonic devices, such as rhymes or visual aids, can help students associate facts and make them easier to remember.
- Play games: Incorporating educational games that reinforce multiplication skills can make learning fun and memorable.
- Use flashcards: Flashcards can be a helpful tool for practicing and memorizing multiplication facts. Quizlet is a viable option for creating digital flashcards, but I prefer student to have physical cards. Why? Because it allows them to remove the facts that they have mastered and focus on the facts they need to practice more.
- Visual aids: Using charts, tables, or visual aids to associate multiplication facts can help reinforce the relationships between numbers.
- Sing songs: Learning multiplication tables through songs can make the process fun and memorable.
- Find patterns: Encourage students to look for patterns in multiplication tables that can help make the facts easier to recall. Patterns are EVERYTHING in math and for students to be able to recognize patterns with multiplications facts further develops their number sense and reinforces the relationship between numbers (see tip #5).
- Create a plan: Studying without a plan can be overwhelming for anyone, much less a student struggling with their multiplication facts. Rather than focusing on all the Fact Families (#1 - 12), focus on a single Fact Family at a time, starting with the easier ones first; I recommended starting with the 0s, 1s, and 10s fact families. The 0s and 1s are easy to remember and allow students to see the relationship between multiplication and addition. The 10s fact family is also simple and helps reinforce the relationship between multiplication and place value. Once the 0s, 1s, and 10s have been mastered, students can move on to studying other fact families in order of difficulty, building on their previous understanding.
