Times Tables

At Alresford Primary School we believe times tables are a crucial maths skill that primary children must learn. Throughout Years 2-6 children will learn and practise their times tables, starting with the 2 times tables and gradually adding more times tables up until they know their times tables up to 12. 

Why do children need to learn their times tables?

Times tables are fundamental to mathematical fluency.  They allow quick recall of key facts without needing to calculate them, which frees up mental energy for complex problem-solving. They are crucial for success in division, fractions, algebra, and everyday tasks like budgeting or scaling recipes. Mastery of times tables builds confidence and can help children to be motivated in their learning. 

Key reasons include-

• Mental Arithmetic & Speed: Knowing tables by heart makes mental Maths significantly easier and faster.
• Foundation for Complex Maths: Multiplication facts underpins harder topics like long multiplication, division, fractions, and algebra, helping students succeed in secondary school and into adulthood.
• Improved Confidence: Regular recall reduces anxiety and builds confidence, making maths less daunting.
• Practical Daily Use: Times tables are essential for real-world tasks, including calculating prices, budgeting, and cooking.
• Pattern Recognition: Learning tables helps children recognise number relationships, such as how the 4-times table relates to the 8-times table, deepening their understanding of arithmetic.
• Memory Development: Practicing tables strengthens memory skills. 

How can children learn their times tables?

It is important that we do not just encourage children to memorise the times table facts but rather teach them the conceptual understanding.  Before any tricks children should understand what multiplication means so they are able to master the facts.

Some students are good at memorising facts but many students find this hard without making connections and seeing patterns in their learning.  If they have a lack of understanding they will find it difficult, disengage quicker and it can lead to anxiety with the learning.

Research shows that having access to manipulatives (counters, cubes, number tracks etc) is key for children to develop mathematical understanding with times tables. Children should be encouraged to investigate, see, understand and use the connections between the different multiplication tables.

Once they are confident with this, they will begin to build automaticity.  This is the ability to recall them accurately and efficiently, reducing cognitive load and allowing the brain to focus on more complex areas. 

For further support on each times table, please click on the side tabs of the times table tab.