Is It Still Necessary To Teach Times Tables?

A question that has given rise to some recent debate is the necessity of learning times tables. Ian Steward, Emeritus Professor of Mathematics at the University of Warwick, expresses some interesting ideas in his recently published article.

He states that there are some basic pieces of maths that we all need to know without having to think, look them up or reach for a calculator.

This is such an important view to hold. Many people think that because we now can use calculators that it is not so important to learn times tables.
Calculators will give you the answer but it takes time and you also need to have a calculator at hand.
This is why I believe that we should know the times tables like the back of our hands.
This then gives us the confidence and ability to tackle more difficult maths.
Stewart claims that there is constant debate between traditionalists and modernisers as to whether teachers should continue teaching times tables.
Are they worth teaching? I definitely share Ian Stewart's view that they are fundamental blocks in the subject of maths.
In fact, I feel that both parties should focus on new ways for children to learn times tables for instant recall rather than discussing the value of this fundamental element!
Knowing times tables without having to think is the key. Everything you learn later is built on this. Ian Stewart gives us the lovely metaphor 'it will be like trying to ride a bike when you can't remember which bits are the pedals'.
It is no surprise that so many have a fear of maths when they don't have confidence in the basics.
But maths affects our lives on a day-to-day basis, it is essential in our lives.

In his article, Stewart brings up the matter of patterns of numbers in times tables. E.g. Adding a zero to each number for the 10 times table: 10 x 6 = 60. He includes the multiples of the 9 times tables: 9, 18, 27, 36, 45, 54, 63, 72, 81, 90
The last number always descends 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, 0

Such patterns in maths can be used to increase enjoyment of the subject by promoting a more interesting and fun way of learning.
But remember patterns alone will not be enough to learn the times tables.

Concluding his views, Ian Stewart mentions that while times tables are vital, they don't need to be taught in the same manner that they've been taught in the past.

One such way to explore this is to search online sites, many of which provide more engaging and fun ways of learning the times tables.

However, feeling confident in selecting the right route isn't always easy.

I believe that parents should look for a system which uses images, questions and location to get to a position where their children can instantly recall their times tables.

Methods that include images, questions and locations to encourage instant recall when learning the times tables. It will encourage confidence in maths and make the experience far more enjoyable!