Why Is There So Much Emphasis On Learning Times Tables?

Times Tables....I`m sure I can hear you groaning! It is the reaction that learning times tables usually gets. So why are we, as teachers, so keen to get your child to learn them? Not only do we want your child to know them, but, to know them instinctively!

It is not because we are all mean and think we suffered so, so should the children of today. Instead, it is because knowing times tables opens up a world of maths to your child. Suddenly, more maths makes sense, is easier to follow and certainly easier to complete. I mean don`t get me wrong, it won`t solve everything, but, it will certainly help!

What topics can knowing their times tables help your child with?

• Division- the inverse (opposite) operation, if you can multiply you division becomes much easier.
• BODMAS- being able to quickly recall multiplication facts, makes division easier here too.
• Fractions- Simplifying and finding equivalent fractions is simple....when you know your times tables
• Area/Mass- this is a tricky ask when a child doesn`t know their times table facts
• Mental Arithmetic- your child will become much quicker and confident with this skill
• Algebra- knowing the relationships between numbers will help your child become more confident with algebra

Most importantly times tables improve your child`s confidence within maths, they see how those numbers in that table fit together. This means that they no longer have to think about them, which allows other, trickier concepts to become easier to grasp. It is easier because your child is only thinking about the new things, not worrying about the times tables, or even counting them to find out that bit of the answer!