Multiplication Facts

It is really important that children learn their multiplication facts up to 12x12. Without the basic understanding of multiplication facts and the ability to recall these quickly, children face a huge challenge to understand the depth of operations being taught throughout the KS2 curriculum.

Fluency of multiplication facts is a strong determiner of future success in mathematics. Those children who can recall their multiplication and division facts have a stronger grasp of more complex mathematical concepts. Memorising multiplication facts will help children have a quicker recall and develop mathematical fluency. Children can then move away from relying on their fingers or other manipulatives to help them. 

Year 4 statutory times table check (MTC):

The Multiplication Tables Check (MTC) is a statutory assessment in schools, for children in Year 4, administered in the Summer Term 2022. The purpose of the MTC is to determine whether pupils can recall their times tables (up to 12 x 12) fluently, which is essential for future success in mathematics. It will also help the school to identify pupils who may need additional support.

What does the check involve?

The MTC is completed online consisting of 25 times tables questions. Your child will answer 3 practice questions before moving on to the official check and will then have 6 seconds to answer each question. On average, the check should take no longer than 5 minutes to complete.

The MTC has been designed to be inclusive, which means it is also accessible to children with special educational needs (SEND) or English as an additional language (EAL). 

What does the check measure?    

The MTC is designed to determine whether Year 4 pupils can fluently recall their times tables up to 12 x 12. It does not check related division facts.

Times Table Rock Stars (TTRS):

Every child has access to TTRS. Using this, children can practise their multiplication recall in a fun and engaging way, competing with others and their own best score.

Home Tip

As the statutory test will be completed online, it is understandably important that children have practise of typing in their answers. The ‘Soundcheck’ mode on Times Table Rock Stars has been designed to mirror this test and can be used as practice in preparation for the timed test.

For further information about the MTC, please click on the link below:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/multiplication-tables-check-information-for-parents