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How to Teach a Child to Memorize Addition Tables

Addition facts are an important component of early math instruction. Children must recall addition facts with ease in order to perform more complex math operations. Before memorizing addition facts, children should understand the concept of addition and be able to solve basic problems on paper. Include games, incentives and goal-setting. Track progress on a chart so children can see progress and begin to take responsibility for their learning. Practice often in short, five- or 10-minute increments.

Instructions

    • 1

      Start with a small group of facts, adding more as they are mastered. Options include starting with ones and working in chronological order, introducing doubles -- such as 1+1 and 2+2 -- or learning fact families. Fact families are groups of three numbers that include two addition sentences and two subtraction sentences. The fact family for the numbers 2, 6 and 8 would include 2 + 6 = 8, 6 + 2 = 8, 8 - 2 = 6 and 8 - 6 = 2.

    • 2

      Create a set of flash cards with note cards and a marker. Write the fact on the front and the answer on the back. Introduce between five and 10 cards at a time by saying the addition fact with the answer and asking the child to repeat it once or twice. Move to the next fact. Go through the set a second time, asking the child to say the fact and the answer. Help as needed. When the child can easily recall all of the facts in the set, introduce five or 10 new facts. When the new facts are easily recalled, add the old facts to the pile and review the entire pile. Continue teaching new facts and assimilating them into the pile of previously learned facts.

    • 3

      Develop a worksheet with 10 or 20 addition fact problems. Ask the child to solve as many problems as possible in one minute. Time the child with a stop watch. Check to see how many problems are correct. Note the incorrect answers and pull those flashcards from the pile to review later.

    • 4

      Set goals for the child, allowing him to have input on what he thinks he can achieve. Challenge the child often, in short increments. Create a fun, motivating atmosphere by providing incentives for learning a designated number of addition facts. For example, let the child choose a favorite activity or treat to do when the goal is achieved.

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