Free Multiplication Flashcards! & How to use them
A multiplication flashcard set
Introduction:
If you are visiting this site, you’ve likely heard of or received one of our free addition or multiplication flashcard sets.
If you already have a set, then you’ll find a short set of directions below. They will explain how best to use the deck to allow your child to quickly master their math facts.
If you do not already have a set or if you would like a set, click the free download link here. It will deliver a PDF file of twenty-four pages, which you can then print, double-sided, on card stock – and then cut out. If you print them out on regular paper, they will be able to see the answers through the paper.
You will have to cut the cards out along their solid black lines. Aside from that, they are free and yours to keep – though we do appreciate donations if you would like to help us in our mission of ensuring every third-grader learns to multiply fluently.
Once you have a pack, here is a simple way quickly ensure your students starts off confident and stays that way as they master their multiplication facts.
Directions (Video directions here, if you prefer)
Once the cards are cut out, pick out all twelve cards (red borders) containing the x1 facts.
Shuffle them, turn them face down in the palm of your hand, and check to see if they are ready. Then begin.
Hold the deck up, facing your child and wait for the first answer.
If they answer correctly, then place it to the right of you.
If they answer incorrectly or hesitate more than a moment, turn the card over to show your child the correct answer, and place the card to the left – perhaps also giving them a hint that might help them remember for next time.
Beginning at step 2, repeat this process until there are no more cards in your hand.
It is now time to repeat this process, but only with the card currently to your left. Pick up the cards on your left, shuffle them, and repeat the process about.
Continue steps 2 - 7 until there are no more cards on in the left-hand pile.
This activity only takes five to ten minutes – and makes an excellent pre-homework or post dinner activity.
Once a child has mastered the x 1 facts, pick out the red times 11 facts. And do the same process.
Once they have mastered their x11 facts, combine the x1 and x11 stacks, and repeat steps 1 - 7.
Finally, continue this process with each new set of number facts until your child has mastered the entire process.
Go in the following order: 1, 11, 2, 10, 5, 4, 3, 9, 8, 6, 7 for the fastest results.
Helpful Hints:
Once you’ve taught your child this basic process, they can easily do it on their own. Encourage that possibility, but participate in the proces when you can.
Pick a regular practice time. Doing it before or after an activity that is already welded into your schedule is best. Like before or after dinner, sports, TV, cellphone time, etc.
Make practice fun by making it a game - click here to see some gaming suggestions.
But also simply use the time as an opportunity to catch up on their day and how they are doing. That small relational connection can do wonders because younger children often hunger for personal time with an adult who matters to them.
Compliment, compliment, compliment. But do not say how smart they are. Compliment them on how hard they work, on how they keep trying, on how regularly the practice.
Good luck and have fun!