Each of my classes spend a small portion of each week trying to master our basic math facts (namely multiplication for my gifted students.) We do this through our Xtramath.org practice, mad minutes, and daily work. Math isn't about who finishes the fastest really. It is about who can apply their mathematical concepts in meaningful ways. However, having your basic math facts memorized for quick recall leaves more time for that application of concepts instead of dwelling on , "What was 6 X 8 again?" This is especially true for fourth grade as they master long multiplication and long division this year.
In a National Council of Teacher's of Mathematics journal article, it was stated this way, "Why should children learn the multiplication facts? Because children without either sound knowledge of their facts or a way of figuring them out are at a profound disadvantage in their subsequent mathematics achievement. Students without muliplication-fact fluency spend more time determining routine answers and less time on more meaningful applications." Skill and drill has its place and parents can be a huge help in this department. Encourage your child to log on to XtraMath.org at home and practice. I have also listed other websites under the "Parent Tips & Link" tab that allow students to practice their basic facts. Use flashcards at home and have them practice with a sibling or in the car on a longer drive (assuming no one gets carsick!) Better yet make them apply their knowledge of multiplication by posing problems at home or at the grocery store or while driving: "If I buy 2 dozen eggs, how many eggs will I have?" Remember too that division is really just the opposite of multiplication (good ol' commutative property!) "If we buy a package of 12 carrots for the 4 people in our family, how many will each person get for dinner?" See how you can work it into your day without it taking a lot of your time - and being more meaningful as well! https://www.xtramath.org/
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Tracey BeanWerner Elementary Archives
May 2018
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