Teaching multiplication tables effectively involves using a variety of strategies to engage students and help them understand and memorize the tables. In this article, we will study about what is mathematics, the rules of multiplication, the properties of multiplication, multiplication signs, multiplication signs, how to learn multiplication tables etc.
What is Multiplication?
Multiplication is the process of calculating the product of two or more numbers. The multiplication of numbers say, ‘a’ and ‘b’, is stated as ‘a’ multiplied by ‘b’.

In Math, the basic explanation of multiplication is adding a number, to another number, repeatedly, i.e. repetitive addition.
Multiplication Examples
See a few more examples of multiplication here:
- Multiplication of 4 and 4 = 4 × 4 = 16
- Multiplication of 3 by 3 = 3 + 3 + 3 + 3= 12
- Multiplication of 6 by 6 = 6 + 6 + 6 + 6 + 6 = 30
- Multiplication of 9 × 9 = 81
- Multiplication of 7 by 9 = 7 × 9 = 63
Multiplication Symbol
The symbol of multiplication is denoted by a cross sign (×) and also sometimes by a dot (.).
Examples:
- 3 × 12 = 36
- 3 × 8 = 24
- 8 × 5 × 10 = 400
- (8).(11) = 88
- (6).(8) = 48
The multiplication formula is given by:
Multiplier × Multiplicand = Product
- Multiplicand is the total number of objects in each group
- Multiplier is the number of equal groups
- Product is the result of multiplication of multiplier and multiplicand
Example: If Multiplier = 7 and Multiplicand = 7, then the product is:
Product = 7 × 7 = 49
Rules of Multiplication (How to Multiply)
To multiply two numbers follow the steps added below:
Step 1: Multiplication of two integers is an integer
Step 2: Any number multiplied by 0 is 0
Step 3: Any number multiplied by 1 is equal to the original number
Step 4: If an integer is multiplied by multiples of 10, then the same number of 0s are added at the end of the original number. Example: 6 × 1000 = 4000
Step 5: Order of the numbers, does not matter, when multiplied together. Example: 2 × 3 × 4 × 5 = 5 × 4 × 3 × 2 = 3 × 2 × 4 × 5 = 120
Multiplication Signs
When two or more numbers are multiplied with different sign (+ and -), then the output result varies, as per the sign rules given below:
Operation
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Result
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(+ve) × (-ve)
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-ve
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(+ve) × (+ve)
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+ve
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(-ve) × (+ve)
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-ve
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(-ve) × (-ve)
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+ve
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How to Learn Multiplication Table?
To learn times tables, you have to implement two easy principles.
- First one is understanding and joy. Explain to your child the reason for learning. To make learning fun, create a positive atmosphere and feeling of freedom. It should not be felt like a duty but more like the only way to the future or dreams.
- Second is the usage of methods that you incorporate to remember new tables. How to learn multiplication? Try to implement each method gradually and create a complex system for learning time tables.
Tips for Learning Multiplication Tables
Before starting to study directly, it is necessary to explain to the child such concepts as:
- First factor is a number that will be added a certain number of times;
- Second factor is a number showing how many times the first factor must be added to obtain the product;
- Product is the value obtained as a result of repeated addition.
Use of Multiplication Charts
- Charts and Tables: Introduce students to a multiplication chart or table, which shows the products of pairs of numbers. Make sure they understand how to read the chart.
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- Practice with Charts: Encourage students to use the chart as a reference until they become more familiar with the multiplication facts.
Practice and Repetition
- Drills: Regular practice is essential. Use flashcards, multiplication worksheets, and online games to help students practice multiplication tables.
- Timed Tests: Administer timed tests to track progress and build speed and accuracy.
Engage with Games and Activities
- Multiplication Bingo: Create bingo cards with multiplication problems and call out the answers. Students mark their cards when they have the correct answer.
- Online Games: Use educational websites and apps that offer interactive multiplication games to make learning fun.
- Songs and Rhymes: Teach multiplication tables through songs and rhymes. Many students find it easier to remember facts through music and rhythm.
How to Memorize Multiplication Table?
Use tricks to learn multiplication tables with children and make the process joyful.
Understanding Principles
Analyzing the multiplication table, you will find certain principles and logical patterns in each line. For instance, the multiples of 10 end in 0, when 5 has the end of 5 or 0. When a child understands the principle of the table, it will be easier to learn and remember it.
Easy Start
First and foremost task of each parent is to show the multiplication table is easy to understand and learn. A simple approach to learning multiplication tables is to start from 2, 5, and 10 tables and end with others. Usually, it comes easily, because multiplying by two is quite straightforward.
Repeating Aloud
Repeating Aloud is the method to learn something by rote. When you sit and learn the timetable, ask the child to repeat it all aloud. The more times children repeat numbers and patterns, the better they will be memorized. Each time the information is reflected in the memory.
Strategies to Learn Multiplication Table?
Use tricks to learn multiplication tables with children and make the process joyful.
Understand the Importance
Before diving into teaching methods, it’s crucial to understand why multiplication tables are important:
- Improves Problem-Solving Skills: Knowing multiplication tables by heart allows students to solve math problems more efficiently.
- Foundation for Advanced Math: Multiplication is a building block for higher-level math concepts such as division, fractions, and algebra.
Start with Basics
1s Table: Emphasize the concept that any number multiplied by 1 remains unchanged.
2s Table: Use real-life examples like pairs of objects to illustrate multiplication by 2.
5s and 10s Tables: Highlight patterns (e.g., ending in 0 or 5) to make these tables easier to memorize.
Practice Regularly
- Homework Assignments: Assign multiplication problems for homework to ensure consistent practice.
- Peer Teaching: Pair students to quiz each other on multiplication tables.
Use Visual Aids
Visual aids help students grasp multiplication concepts more effectively:
- Multiplication Charts: Display a chart showing the multiplication tables from 1 to 12. Encourage students to refer to it frequently.
- Flashcards: Create flashcards with multiplication problems on one side and answers on the other to facilitate quick recall.
Assess Progress
Regular assessment helps identify areas where students may need additional support:
- Quizzes and Tests: Administer periodic quizzes to assess students’ mastery of multiplication tables.
- Progress Charts: Maintain a chart tracking each student’s progress with multiplication tables.
- Oral Assessments: Conduct one-on-one oral assessments to gauge students’ quick recall abilities.
Use Real-Life Examples
- Cooking Recipes: Discuss how to adjust recipes by multiplying ingredient quantities.
- Sports Statistics: Analyze sports scores and statistics that involve multiplication.
- Shopping Scenarios: Use examples like calculating the total cost of multiple items to practice multiplication.
How to Memorize Multiplication Table?
On average the period for learning multiplication tables takes up to a month or even more. The duration depends on several circumstances among which are:
- Approach to Learning
- Intensive Daily Practice
- Regularity of Lessons
Conclusion
To conclude a lesson on multiplication tables, summarize the key points covered, such as patterns in the tables, strategies for memorization, and practical applications. Reinforce the importance of practice and consistency, and encourage students to use the tables in real-life situations. Finish with a fun activity or quiz to review what they’ve learned, and provide resources for further practice at home.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are Multiplication Tables?
Multiplication tables, also known as times tables, are a mathematical tool used to show the product of pairs of numbers. They are a fundamental concept in arithmetic that helps in the quick and efficient calculation of multiplication problems.
Why is it important to learn multiplication tables?
Multiplication tables are fundamental to understanding more complex math concepts. They help improve speed and accuracy in calculations, which are essential skills in both academic and real-life situations.
Can multiplication tables be taught using technology?
Absolutely. Tablets and computers can provide interactive and adaptive learning experiences. Many apps and online programs offer engaging ways to practice and reinforce multiplication skills.
What are some effective strategies for memorizing multiplication tables?
Repetition and practice are key. Encourage daily practice, use visual aids like charts, and break down the tables into smaller chunks. Teaching patterns and tricks (such as the rule for multiplying by 9) can also help.
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