What are ‘multiplication facts’? Why are they essential to your child’s success in maths?
One of the essential skills students need to master in primary school mathematics are “multiplication facts”.
published : 03 April 2024
One of the essential skills students need to master in primary school mathematics are “multiplication facts”.
What are they?
Multiplication facts typically describe the answers to multiplication sums up to 10x10. Sums up to 10x10 are called “facts” as it is expected they can be easily and quickly recalled. You may recall learning multiplication facts in school from a list of times tables.
The shift from “times tables” to “multiplication facts” is not just about language. It stems from teachers wanting children to see how multiplication facts can be used to solve a variety of problems beyond the finite times table format.
Why are multiplication facts so important?
By the end of primary school, it is expected students will know multiplication facts up to 10x10 and can recall the related division fact (for example, 10x9=90, therefore 90÷10=9).
Learning multiplication facts is also essential for developing “multiplicative thinking”. This is an understanding of the relationships between quantities, and is something we need to know how to do on a daily basis.
Multiplicative thinking is needed in nearly all maths topics in high school and beyond. It is used in many topics across algebra, geometry, statistics and probability.
How can you help?
- Discuss strategies: Prompt your child to think of facts they already know and how they can be used for new facts.
- Help them practise: Play games like “multiplication heads up” to practise recalling facts under friendly time crunches.
- Find patterns: Print multiplication grids and explore patterns with your child, helping them become mathematical thinkers.
The importance of multiplication for developing your child’s success and confidence in mathematics cannot be understated. We believe these ideas will give you the tools you need to help your child develop these essential skills.
