{how And When To Use Times Tables Worksheets|times Table Worksheets - How And When To Use Them|using

Times table worksheets are not very helpful when it comes to learning the times table, despite the role they play in testing. This was the opinion I put across in my previous articles relating to this subject.

Times table worksheets are easy to come by and broadly commented on. However, innovative systems of teaching the times tables have been sorely neglected or poorly explored; for example, audio times table worksheets.

Is it extreme to consider the idea that times table worksheets are redundant?

I would agree that there are some shades of grey in the debate about times tables worksheets.

Ultimately, they have their place.
However, what exactly is that place?Related to testing if your children do worksheets, and you time them, this can replicate exam conditions.

By practicing written calculations on times table worksheets, children become familiar with the written form of times table testing. It will prepare them.

Worksheets provide a very straightforward process for children. In the context of preparing for exams, they are definitely beneficial. Your children simply have to get on with the task in hand.No thinking, no complications, you're children are just doing the worksheets to complete them as if they were in an exam.

When your child is finished the worksheet there is something to show for it. Work has been accomplished. It can be quantified.

This is especially true for children who suit this type of learning method.

Some children simply like doing written times tables worksheets.

The sense of satisfaction that a child can get out of seeing something through to completion can help to motivate them. This can be as simple as the results at the end of a worksheet.

Taking this into consideration, it's important to see how worksheets shouldn't be ruled out. They DO have a role to play.

In fact, children who enjoy this method of learning should be encouraged to continue with it. Motivation is often key in most areas of learning and will undoubtedly benefit your child.

Does that mean you shouldn't get them to explore other methods of learning?
This really is dependent on the best way your child learns. Some children might require more interactive and visual or entertaining ways of learning.

The idea here is to discover which method of learning your child prefers. By appreciating how they learn you can then incorporate the best system of learning. By doing this, your child will learn effectively and retain the knowledge.

Ultimately, I'm promoting the idea what times table worksheets can be expanded to include a more well-rounded learning experience. This involves aspects of more creative, visual and kinaesthetic learning. Colour, images, speaking and listening. All of these can benefit children who process differently.

By all means, if your child enjoys times table worksheets, then let them learn that way. But for those children who don't enjoy this method of learning, I encourage parents and teachers to explore other methods.