Learning multiplication doesn’t have to be all about rote memorization and flashcards; there are plenty of fun online games you can add to the mix. From target practice to fashion dress up, your student is sure to find something to capture his or her attention with this week’s selection of multiplication games.
Dositey.com: Multiplication
Dositey.com has basic multiplication covered. Best reasons to visit are the Order of Operations games (solve equations such as 14-2x4+11 to reveal a hidden picture) and Mystery Picture games for practicing multiplication facts up to a product of 20. In addition, the site has dozens of printable worksheets, including a customizable one for practicing times tables from 1 to 9.
Helping
With Math: Multiplication Games
“Multiplication doesn’t have to be all worksheets, table, charts, tests, and problems. Games are often an excellent way for your child to learn math. In keeping with our ‘no bouncing frog’ format, they are all clean and simple to try although they are still fun.’’ True to the site’s word, there is nary a bouncing frog in sight, but the click-and-drag games are great for practicing multiplication facts. Tops are the Target the Answer games, which feature two-minute rounds of target practice with sound effects.
KidsNumbers.com: Multiplication Games
The KidsNumbers multiplication program is divided into two parts. The first focuses on pre-multiplication skill building, and the second is a collection of games for reinforcing multiplication facts. For example, in Apple Baskets Multiplication, a problem such as 5x4 is visualized as five baskets each filled with four apples. “As students begin this activity they will depend heavily on the apple baskets. However, over time, as the concepts begin to sink in, students should begin solving problems more mentally, until eventually the apple baskets are no longer required.’’
Multiplication.com: Interactive Games
Woo hoo! Multiplication.com is my pick of the week because of the unique themes that make its games super fun. For example, in Pizza Pizzazz, you are presented with a problem, such as 8x9, a pizza, and a restaurant full of tables waiting for their orders. To earn a point, you need to deliver your pizza to table number 72. Other fun concepts include Math Models (“Mix and match clothes to come up with your favorite outfit. The more math problems you solve correctly, the more clothes you have to choose from.’’) and Color Creations (“Unlock the colors to paint the pictures by answering the problems correctly.’’).
