How to Teach Multiplication

Teaching multiplication can be made interesting by the use of various tricks and techniques. Beginners should not be taught cumbersome and tedious procedures to multiply, which, in most cases, repel them from the interesting subject of arithmetic. In order to avoid this problem, easy-to-use methods need to be devised for making the topic understandable.

✦ The first and foremost thing that one should explain is the meaning of multiplication. The expression 3 + 3 + 3 = 9 is quite easy for a kid to understand. The expression 3 x 3 = 9, on the other hand, can be complicated, though it means the same thing. It is, therefore, necessary to explain that multiplication is actually just repeated addition.

The relationship that exists between numbers to be multiplied and their answers is understood in a better manner through this activity. Commonly used answers of multiplication are fed into the memory on a permanent basis.

✦ Flash cards also prove to be useful. This method can be used to reinforce a child's memory.

Use of arrays makes the process of learning multiplication interesting. It is especially helpful for those who are visual learners. Arrays are blocks of dots, or any other easily comprehensible shapes.

The first number in the process of multiplication is represented by the topmost row of dots, and the column of dots that extends downward from the first dot in the topmost row represents the second number. Adding the number of dots represented by this entire grid gives the answer.

Teaching the concepts of arithmetic in an easy-to-understand manner is necessary for kids to grasp them quickly and properly. The tricks and techniques presented here are time-tested, and their usefulness has been proven.