Systematic Approach to Learning Multiplication Facts

Your client may benefit from the use of a systematic approach to learning multiplication facts.  One example of a systematic approach follows the steps outlined below:

■ Teach that zero times any number is zero.

■ Teach that 1 times any number is that number.

■ Teach that 2 times any number means double that number: 2 x 3 means 3 + 3.

■ Teach that 5 times any number and involves counting by 5s the number of times indicated by the multiplier. For example, 5 x 6 means counting 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, and 30.

■ Teach the trick in learning the 9s: subtraction 1 from the multiplier to obtain the tens digit. Then add enough to it to make 9 to obtain the ones digit. For example: 9 x 4 = 36 – 3 is one 4 and 3 + 6 = 9. To self-check, Zachary can make sure the numbers in the product that to 9; e.g., 36: 3 + 6 = 36; 45: 4 + 5 = 9. 

■ Now there are only 15 facts left to be memorized:
3 x 3 = 9 4 x 8 = 32
3 x 4 = 12 6 x 6 = 36
3 x 6 = 18 6 x 7 = 42
3 x 7 = 21 6 x 8 = 48
3 x 8 = 24 7 x 7 = 49
4 x 4 = 16 7 x 8 = 56
4 x 6 = 24 8 x 8 = 64
4 x 7 = 28

Handouts

• The following handout may be useful to provide to clients working on learning their multiplication: Multiplication Grid

• The following handout may be useful to provide to clients to assist them in multiplication: Finger Math Strategies