Multiplication facts (0-12’s) are essential because they form the building blocks for higher-level math concepts. Multiplication facts range from being “easy” to recognize, memorize, show or explain (1 x 5 = 5) to being much more difficult (9 x 12 = 108). Multiplication facts connect to so many other areas of math in Fourth Grade, Fifth Grade, and BEYOND! For example, two of the major strides that we make in Fourth Grade are learning long multiplication (up to 2-digit by 2-digit) and division (up to 3-digit by 1-digit). Both of these concepts depend on a basic knowledge of multiplication; without it, it becomes much more difficult for the student to learn the process and steps.

Students are actually expected to have mastered and memorized their multiplication facts for 0-12 by the end of Third Grade! We understand that this is not achievable for every student, and that while some kiddos soar when it comes to memorization and multiplication understanding, other students have more difficulty at first (Ms. Goldman was included in this latter bunch when she was in 4th grade!). For this reason, we amp up our own math learning inside the classroom with extra multiplication practice. We spend the first week of Fourth Grade learning a few classroom games, taking timed tests, and developing a familiarity with using flashcards and multiplication apps online to practice. After that, we dedicate one math class per week to continue such practice. Our DREAM is that students and families will empower themselves to practice more at home, develop these building blocks, and enable themselves to thrive as they begin to learn Fourth Grade math concepts!

— Ms. Goldman, Mrs. Larsen and Mrs. Marquardt