Math Facts: Mastering Through Games
By: Dallan Hunt
Math facts: What are they and why are they important?
There are four basic operations that nearly all of math is built upon: addition, subtraction, multiplication and division. Without these, mathematics as we know it would not exist. We wouldn’t be able to do our taxes, design computer programs or build cars.
It seems strange to admit, but we rely on adding and subtracting, as well as multiplying and dividing, every single day—they are the oxygen that mathematics breathes. And this means that in order to improve in math, a successful student needs to master these four basic math facts.
The question, then, is how?
Understanding vs. memorizing. Do we need both?
Consider a student who can quickly recall math facts with precise accuracy and lightning speed. Does this mean they will have the critical thinking skills to find creative solutions to real math problems? Not at all.
Now consider a student whose recall of math facts is slow. Does this mean they lack the critical thinking skills to find creative solutions to real math problems? Not at all! But would it help them if they could recall the math facts more quickly and accurately? Of course!
The point is that quick recall of math facts is by no means the essence of mathematics, and it doesn’t necessarily make kids strong in math. But at the same time, it is certainly helpful. After all, students who can quickly recall math facts can spend more time engaged in problem solving, allowing them to focus on reasoning and critical thinking.
So, to help students better focus their energy on problem solving itself, let’s look at how you can help your child master math facts! (Don’t worry, you don’t have to be a teacher to help your child with this skill!)
Where should you start?
Typically, there are certain grade levels where different math facts are taught and mastered:
- Addition and subtraction facts are focused on in grades 1-2
- Multiplication and division are focused on in grades 3-4
These are only general guidelines, so you can also reach out to your child’s school teacher to see what math facts they are focusing on. And then based on your child’s grade level, these guidelines can help you to decide which ones to start on.
In general, it is important for your child to first understand what math facts are, before trying to memorize them. For example, if a student understands multiplication, they can go from 5 groups of 8 to 6 groups of 8, by simply adding 1 more group of 8:
5 groups of 8 = 5x8 = 40
To find 6 groups of 8 (6x8) a student can take 5 groups of 8 (40) and add one more group of 8.
6 groups of 8 = 40 + 8 = 48.
These steps show why 6 groups of 8 is 48, and understanding this is important before simply memorizing that 6x8 is 48. Once students understand math facts, they can work toward memorization.
Below are different strategies to help your child memorize math facts!
Tips and strategies for mastering math facts
One of the strategies often presented for mastering math facts is flash cards. Flash cards involve taking a notecard and on one side writing the math fact (for example, 6x8). Then on the other side, writing the answer (48). Flash cards are effective because students can easily check if their answer is correct or not.
Tip: When you use flashcards, we recommend having your child make the flashcards themselves, rather than just buying pre-made cards. When your child writes out the math facts themselves, it helps with memory and recall!
For students who are exceptionally motivated, flash cards may be satisfying, but for others it won’t. To really entice students, check out these games to play. Your child will be mastering each of the four basic operations without even knowing it (shh … don’t tell them)!
Addition Games
Thirty-One
Cars are laid face-up in rows. Each round, the first player decides which card to turn upside down, while the other player chooses which card to turn over. Keep a running tally of selected cards, and win by adding exactly to 31, or tricking the other player to go over!
Click here to learn how to play Thirty-One.
Cribbage
Cribbage, or sometimes called just Crib, is a great game for everyone—both young and old. It adds the appeal of a card game, along with important math skills, such as skip counting, counting on and adding. You and your child will be learning math without knowing it, as you try to be the first to score enough points to reach the end first!
Click here to learn how to play Cribbage.
Subtraction Games
Subtraction Tiles
All you need are numbered tiles and a grid of numbers, all printable and ready to go! Pick up a tile and place it across two adjacent numbers on the grid (if you can find them), which subtract to the number on the tile. Take turns and be the last player to place a tile correctly, and you win!
Click here to learn how to play Subtraction Tiles.