In recent years, Australian maths classrooms have moved away from memorising times tables and towards understanding multiplication. However, this approach has left many students without the foundational multiplication facts necessary for basic arithmetic. Even year 12 students often struggle with basic multiplication, unable to efficiently or correctly compute times tables. This not only slows them down but also leads to frustration and a lack of motivation to delve into deeper mathematical ideas. Interestingly, research has yet to determine the best way to learn times tables and Australia is once again questioning the optimal way forward.
Despite the conflict, an effective method for teaching times tables remains. In fact, I believe it ticks the boxes for both understanding and memorisation. It involves focusing on understanding through "skip counting" and then connecting the dots to traditional multiplication tables.
Here is, in my opinion, the best way to learn times tables, emphasising both understanding and rote memorisation.
Note: In 4 x 3 = 12, the multiplier is 3 and the product is 12.
Learn in this order:
1 times table - product equals the multiplier
10 times table - product equals the multiplier with a zero attached
2 times table - double the multiplier
5 times table - product always ends in a five or a zero
3 times table - see below
4 times table - see below
9 times table - Digits of the product add to 9.
The six facts: 6x6, 7x7, 8x8, 6x7, 6x8, 7x8
Learning the times tables really can be simplified to learning the 3 and 4 times tables, and then memorising the six multiplication facts: 6x6, 7x7, 8x8, 6x7, 6x8, 7x8. Here's a step by step guide of how to learn the 3 times table:
Use this method for the 4 times table as well, then memorise the six multiplication facts. Combine this with the "easy" times tables and we're done.
In conclusion, the shift away from memorising times tables towards understanding multiplication in Australian maths classrooms has left many students without the foundational multiplication facts needed for basic arithmetic. While research has yet to determine the best method for teaching times tables, an effective approach involves a focus on understanding through skip counting and connecting the dots to traditional multiplication tables. By learning times tables in a particular order and using specific methods, students can improve their understanding and rote memorisation of multiplication facts, leading to improved efficiency and confidence in solving basic arithmetic problems.
Awesome 👏 thank you 🙏