Learning Fast Facts

I would like to get you involved in something we are doing in our math class this year. Every year, I have many parents tell me, “My child is struggling in math. What can I do to help them get better?”

I want to answer that question with some very boring but important advice. Basic multiplication facts are a major component of the foundation of math in 4th grade and beyond. It is vital for students to have their basic multiplication facts (at the very least through 10, preferably through 12) memorized in order to keep from falling behind and getting overwhelmed this year. If we are doing a difficult, multi-step, multi-operation problem later in the year, and we still don’t know what 4x6 is, we’re going to be in for a very stressful and frustrating experience.

We are setting a class goal to have all of our students get 100% on a 5-minute multiplication test. This is a written test composed of 100 basic, single-digit multiplication facts (3x7, 9x8, etc.). Students have 5 minutes to complete the test. Obviously this will require the student to be able to recite their facts quickly as well as accurately. We will take this test once a week, as well as, daily multiplication tests.

As you might imagine, we are a long way from our goal. This is partially due to the fact that it is still early in the year, students could be rusty from summer vacation, etc. I fully expect that it will dramatically increase as the year progresses. Next week, students will receive goal sheets to take home and go over with you. These goal sheets will show their scores and provide opportunity to make goals for the next 5-minute test. In addition to making a percentage goal, I would also like students to make specific goals for how they can improve. Students will receive extra credit if the goal sheet is turned in and signed by a parent.

I want to share some resources for you to help your child practice their multiplication facts at home. I will do as much as I can to help them in school, but independent practice outside of the classroom will really sharpen their skills. Please feel free to explore the following resources with your child if you have the time:

www.everydaymathonline.com – students have personal passwords for this website, which includes games such as Multiplication Baseball, Factor Captor, Multiplication Top-It, and Name That Number. These games can range from very basic multiplication facts to more challenging ones, depending on the version you choose.

http://www.mathplayground.com/spaceracer_multiplication.html - Space Racer X – You are Space Racer X, an intergalactic explorer and daring captain of a new line of mathematical spacecraft. You are the first person to attempt to reach a distant planet under constant asteroid attack. How far can you guide your spacecraft?

http://www.mathplayground.com/balloon_invaders.html - Number Invaders - The Number Invaders are descending upon the innocent inhabitants of a distant planet. Help Trevor keep the Number Invaders a safe distance away. You'll need instant recall of math facts and a steady hand to win this game!