Multiplicative thinking vs memorisation of timetables.

My number one request from parents enquiring about Maths tutoring is for their child to improve their timetables.

There is often a huge gap between a child’s conceptual understanding of what we mean to multiply, and their ability to recall timetables facts. I don’t deny that having these facts at the tips of your fingers can be really useful and is usually paired with increased confidence in being able to keep up in the classroom. However, I don’t believe that there should be such a focus at recalling these facts at speed. What this does is divide kids into those that think they can do maths well, and those that think they are not a ‘maths person’.

I teach lots of children how to improve their conceptual understanding of multiplication, and through this we use lots of visuals. Some visuals are great for some kids, and for others, we need to try a variety of approaches before we find the one that fits, allowing that particular student to have that ‘aha’ moment.

Here are some of my favourites:

Using berkeleyeverett.com/math-flips/ you can see how different students 'see’ the problem. There is an opportunity for rich discussion here on how we can connect the left side of the flip to the more difficult right side. Everyone’s ideas are welcomed and celebrated.

Dot arrays are explained beautifully here at kateshomeschoolmath.com/multiplication-array/

Story telling is another great way to build an understanding of multiplying, and dividing alongside one another, showing kids that they really are the same concept.

Can you think of a way this image could begin your story for a multiplicative thinking lesson?

Whichever way works for your student or child, there is no big rush to learn every timetables fact quickly. Be playful with it, tell stories, play games and let them enjoy being flexible with numbers and mathematical concepts.