Teaching Multiplication Essay Example

and one, doubles, and fives facts. Equal groups can be demonstrated using arrays. Commutativity (3 x 5 = 5 x 3) is an extremely valuable concept for students to grasp when learning multiplication facts because it effectively cuts the number of facts to be memorized in half. Using zero and one, doubles, and fives facts can be reinforced using beans and cups and/or fact tables. The helping facts include double and one more set (3’s), double and double again (4’s), half then double, the nifty nines, and add one more set.

Once a student has a firm understanding of multiplication concepts and strategies for solving problems, he or she is now able to comfortably move from concrete into more abstract problem-solving. Drill can also now be introduced to increase the speed of fact recall. Effective techniques for drilling include using short, regular time segments, talking about strategies, games, and teaching methods for individual practice to students and parents. Flashcards are most effective when used in short, regular time segments. Useful flashcard strategies include identifying known and unknown facts, working on 1-3 new facts at a time, practicing combined new and known facts, tracking progress with raw scores, using game-like activities, and utilizing guess and check language for children who fear making mistakes.

Teaching multiplication is much more than simply writing facts and doing flashcards. Taking the time to develop strategies for solving problems is an excellent way to ensure that students connect mathematical concepts to real life. Developing number relationships is the foundation for strategies that help students remember basic facts. Guiding strategy development is a way to promote students’ conceptual understanding of

numbers and will encourage students to apply problem-solving strategies to other areas of the real world. Helping children to make meaningful connections between math and other areas of their lives is worth the extra effort.