Multiplication represents the gateway to more challenging math courses, especially algebra. Students who struggle with the times tables often fall behind in their subsequent math classes, writes Susan Jarema, who launched the GoogolPower.com website. Easy problems like 2 times 2 become building blocks to the more complicated mathematics, such as longer multiplication problems, fractions and division. Many kids mistakenly assume they can bypass the tables and just reach for a calculator. They risk keying in the wrong numbers and spending too much time doing simple math.
Another objective among math teachers is finding multiple ways to coach kids on mastering their times tables. Many teachers agree that mixing up different techniques boosts a student's performance, according to Googol Power website. Kids should memorize standard multiplication charts and then reinforce their rapid recall abilities with flash cards and drills. Music and riddles are equally helpful because these shortcuts show kids that multiplication is repeated addition and groupings of number sets. This develops their understanding of concepts, which becomes invaluable when they try to tackle tougher lessons.
A child's confidence soars when he masters his times tables. Likewise, math anxieties prevent a child from absorbing new information and hinder his classroom accomplishments. A fundamental objective in any math classroom is encouraging children to speak up when they cannot understand a lesson, according to "Math Teacher's Ten Commandments" at Math Power website. Some children who feel lost are too intimidated to admit their confusion, which spirals into more frustration and eventually defeat. This skill gap precludes them from entering many professions like stockbroker or computer analyst.
Multiplication lessons continue long after a student walks out of her classroom. She uses multiplication when she figures out a discount while shopping or calculates angles or depth with a camera. She leans on these same skills when she doubles her favorite chocolate chip cookie recipe or calculates her distance and arrival time while traveling on vacation. An effective teacher pushes his students to find everyday applications for these classroom lessons.