subject: Multiplication Tables: The Cornerstone Of Maths [print this page] Multiplication Tables: The Cornerstone Of Maths
One of the basic building blocks of maths is multiplication. Learning the times tables is a vital part of arithmetic. As with other subjects some children might take easily to learning their multiplication tables while others might find it more of a challenge sometimes even a struggle.
Often, teachers tend to reply on parents to help their struggling children by practicing at home. Unfortunately if a child is having a very frustrating and challenging time learning their times tables, it can lead parents to questioning whether or not it's necessary.
Is it?
YES! VERY!
Why?
It prepares children for the next stages in their mathematical education. To deprive them of this vital understanding and learning means they will struggle with more advanced maths such as division and longer, more complicated multiplications.
Skipping the vital learning stage of the times tables is like teaching a child to run without having taught them how to walk.
Long division and two-digit multiplication will be daunting and challenging for children who do not possess a solid grasp of their multiplication tables.
Bearing this in mind, we can confidently conclude that the times tables are essential to learning. Without them a child's confidence and capability will be lost.
Consider also the broader context in which we use multiplication. We use it in the office, in the kitchen, in the supermarket and the shopping mall. Everything from measuring and multiplying a recipe in the kitchen to managing one's mortgage or basic finances!
All of these tasks are made easier and quicker when you have a solid grasp of the multiplication tables.Now, while these are valid points to any adult, it's another thing trying to encourage a child who is struggling with their times tables.
It's important to note that in some situations a child's struggle can be chalked up to a learning difficulty especially if they are receiving consistent help from parents and teachers. If this is the case then a child will need to be given alternative methods for learning their multiplication tables.
It is very important to ensure that a child is encouraged and supported.Negative emotions impact terribly on learning. Self-consciousness, stress, conflict, anxiety and other such emotions hamper a child's development. It can go so far as to completely prevent the learning of new information. Bearing this in mind, it's vital that parents support their child rather than reprimand or criticize them.
New and innovative methods can help a struggling child by encouraging them to learn in the way that suits the way they process information.
For example, the use of games that incorporate multiplication tables can be very effective for some children. Others respond better to software programs and the use of animals or TV characters. These visual and more enjoyable methods of learning can help children memorize better. Flash cards have also proven to be effective in memorizing multiplication tables.
The experiences that are most memorable are usually those we've enjoyed. It makes sense then, to make learning multiplication tables more of an enjoyable experience for children. This way, they are far more likely to retain the vital information they have learned and will undoubtedly NEED in the future.
