Multiplication, Part 2

How to Memorize Multiplication Facts

By Michelle Tucker

©2010 Michelle Tucker


Summary: Multiplication facts escape many students.  How to get them to stick.  Strategies and inexpensive materials.

     Memorizing multiplication facts can be easy.  Here's how:
     First, get a Multiplication Table.  Your child can see patterns.  The first pattern is multiplying by 1, it does not change the value of the number.  This is the Identity Property.  The 1s are done.  Understanding the identity property, your child will easily grasp multiplying by 10s.
     Second, if your child knows the square numbers, such as, 2x2=4 and 3x3=9 up to 10x10=100, these are now eliminated.
     Third, when your child can skip count and can answer the multiplication facts that goes with them, for example, the 2s , maybe the 3x and the 5s, your child can eliminate these facts from the multiplication chart.
     Fourth, you and your child are getting down to less and less to memorize.  This time, look at the multiplication chart and find facts that are the same.  For example, 2x3 and 3x2 are the same either way you order the numbers.  This is called the Commutative Property of Multiplication.  Once your child recognizes it is the same answer, just the multiplication numbers are in a different order, you can eliminate more from the chart.  
     Last, what is left on the multiplication chart? Possibly there are only 15 multiplication facts that your child has to memorize.  Put these facts, like 8x6, on one side of an index card (or just paper that you cut up).  Put the answer on the other side.  Each day, have your child go through these 15 or so cards.  You and your child will be amazed at how easy memorizing multiplication facts has become!


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