For Shormann Pre-Algebra Students
Memorization of multiplication facts to a minimum of 9 is essential to learning the concepts in Lessons 30 and up of Shormann Pre-Algebra. While memorizing is a developmental skill that can't be forced, most students at this level are able to memorize them if consistently practiced as instructed below.
IMPORTANT: Until they have memorized these facts, allow the student to use a multiplication chart (page 2) while working on their Pre-Algebra assignments. While this may seem counter-intuitive, memorizing and learning concepts are two different skills and should be taught separately. Without using a chart, the assignments will be unnecessarily harder and more frustrating for the student.
If the student cannot complete this Multiplication Mastery Test in five minutes or less, without using their fingers, singing songs, or other tricks, follow the steps under “How to Memorize Multiplication Facts” below:
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How to Memorize Multiplication Facts
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Give the Multiplication Mastery Test with a time limit of 5 minutes. No using their fingers, singing songs, or other tricks.
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Do the following every day for 10 minutes per day. If you can, do it several times per day.
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Pray with and for your student!
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Based on the test above, make flashcards for only the facts the student does not know.
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Select 5 cards, not in order.
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Don't say the fact, just let him look at it on the flashcard. If he can't say it in 3 seconds, tell him the answer and have him say it aloud.
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No counting fingers, skip counting, or tricks. Be patient!
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After he has those five memorized well, add two new ones and review the original five.
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Do these for several days. Once he has those memorized well, add two more.
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Continue this method until all facts are correctly recited in 3 seconds or so.
Tips:
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If needed, give the student some clay or something to roll around in his hands.
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Offer short and long-term rewards - memorize 10 - get x, memorize 20 = get y, memorize all - big reward.
Multiplication Chart
