Learning the 4 times table: tips and tricks

Learning the 4 times table

Once the 2 and the 3 times table are in place, even if still a little slow, learning the 4 times table tends to be a little easier.

Children are beginning to become used to switching between columns, and the numbers are all even and still below 50. As in the 2 times table, the final digit of each answer repeats itself after 5x.

 It can help children's understanding of number patterns to point out the links between the 2 times table and the 4 times table, and to emphasise doubling. (I would not do this if there were a risk of disturbing the developing knowledge of the table.)

4 times table tips and tricks

• Give plenty of practice on 2s,3s and 4s together. This really helps with higher tables, and 5 will come as light relief.
• Use two 2p pieces as units of 4 maths aids if you need to. These can then be split to reinforce the idea of doubling 2 and halving 4.

4 times tables practice worksheets and games

See below for some of TheSchoolRun's 4 times tables worksheets.

4x table matching challenge	4x table practice	4x table number sentences
4x table practice drill	Number sequences	4x table speed grids
Find multiples of 4	Spot the wrong answers: 4x table	Speed grids: 4x table division facts

Read John Bald's guide to times table learning for more general advice about multiplication tables, then browse through all times table worksheets and printable games.

We also have a SchoolRun Times Tables Learning Journey.