The learning of multiplication facts has long been an important focus of the primary grades, but lasting mastery of facts requires a meaningful approach that develops all four components of mathematical proficiency (understanding, fluency, problem-solving, and reasoning). This article shares how visual imagery in the form of Quick Looks with dot…

The article describes learning activities incorporating movement, storytelling, and music with instruction on multiplication facts and concepts for elementary special education students. The author explains that such an approach can alleviate boredom and frustration. (CL)

Using the calculator to do addition and multiplication in base 2 is discussed, with the stress on how to change numbers from one base to another using the calculator. (MNS)

A classroom illustration of a multiplication game is presented followed by an analysis of the game. (MNS)

How to develop multiplicative magic squares is discussed. Various types of numbers are used in the examples. (MNS)

Activities with triangular, square, pentagonal, hexagonal, and octagonal numbers are briefly discussed. (MNS)

Presents a technique for multiplying two-digit numbers whose tens digits are equal and whose units digits have a sum of 10. Then various mental calculations with other types of two-digit and larger numbers are discussed. (MNS)

Comments on the history of negative numbers, some methods that can be used to introduce the multiplication of negative numbers to students, and an explanation of why the product of two negative numbers is a positive number are included. (MNS)

Offers suggestions for presenting multiplication to elementary students at the primary and intermediate levels. At the primary level, the emphasis is on introducing the concept of multiplication; at the intermediate level, the focus is on numeration and place value (using grids and a place value game). (SM)

Described are activities and games incorporating a technique of "one step" which is used with children with learning difficulties. The purpose of "one step" is twofold, to minimize difficulties with typical trouble spots and to keep the step size of the instruction small. (Author/TG)

A game with a football theme is described that has been found to be effective in motivating students toward mastery of the basic multiplication facts. (MP)

Simple experiences with probability can extend third graders' understanding of the need for fractions. Three activities are given which build on language-arts experiences and incorporate concepts in multiplication, graphs, and fractions. (MNS)

A modern adaptation of the historic lattice algorithm which can be used for multiplication and division is discussed. How it works is clearly illustrated. (MNS)

Four worksheets and teaching suggestions are presented, with the focus on mental computation for levels 2-3; factors, levels 3-4; and nonroutine problems, levels 5-6 and 7-8. (MNS)

An example of a lesson involving calculators that focused on calculator use is given. An examination of the traditional algorithm by the students led to student-directed investigations. (MP)