The Question
Evidence from IKANS test and conversations with the kids suggested they were lacking in their knowledge of multiplication basic facts. This got me thinking ‘How can I significantly improve my kids times tables knowledge within a learn, create, share pedagogy?’ Below are some of the strategies I tried and the results.
The Humble Tumble
I introduced a tumble to my maths program. This ensured each child got at least 20 minutes a day to work on the multiplication basic facts they needed to.
Basic facts station
The basic facts station included multiplication/division wheels where the kids would test themselves or play with a partner. It also included multiplication snap. Each child played a card then it was race to multiply the two numbers together. First person to say the correct answer won that pair of cards.
Multiplication songs
The kids could also watch and learn the multiplication songs we found on youtube. They had access to the 2 - 12 times tables songs through our class site.
Regular tests
To track progress, the kids were tested on their knowledge of the first 100 times tables basic facts
The results
This graph shows the amount of shift the kids made in their times table score from the start of February to the end of March
Reflection
Overall the inquiry was successful. The children made gains in their times tables knowledge and were generally engaged and wanting to learn them. I will be carrying on with the basic facts station into term 2 however I will be changing the activities to ensure the kids don’t get tired of them. The children who have a great understanding of times table 1-10 will be encouraged to learn the 12’s, 13’s and the division basic facts.
The basic facts station also promoted self monitoring which was great for the kids. At times it got a little messy when some kids went of task but after a word or three from myself they were back on track.
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