Building Automaticity in Recalling Multiplication Facts of Grade 4-Yahooat Balayan East Central School

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

The quest for promoting numeracy among our school children is intense. The assessment was done because, just like literacy, it is a must for them to be skilled in this area to make them more competitive in the future. In our curriculum, Grade four pupils are expected to perform mathematical tasks which require automatic recall in multiplication facts. Problem-solving strategies is one of the main focus. As a Grade Four mathematics teacher, the pupils' ability to automatically recall basic math facts in addition and multiplication has significantly declined over the past years. This has been a great concern of the researcher because it is believed that this will affect their future math performance.

METHODS

This action research study was conducted in Grade Four-Yahoo classroom in BECS for five weeks. Qualitative and quantitative data were collected and analyzed during the action research project. A convenience sample was used to determine the participants of the study. Three instruments were used over the course of five weeks to collect data for this study: Pre and Post Test, two-minute timed test administered weekly, and one-minute timed test administered 3 to 4 times a week. Each instrument used in this study provided data to help determine if practicing single-digit multiplications facts in math centers affected the students' ability to memorize multiplication facts.

RESULTS

The implemented intervention, the Math center, contributed a lot in increasing the fluency in recalling Multiplication facts. The results showed difference and progression as well though varied increase among the participants was noticed. The researcher believed the students' ability to automatically recall basic multiplication facts was enhanced and did slightly increase. The daily practice with basic multiplication facts, through various engaging activities, enhanced their ability to recall the basic facts. The test showed students' recall of basic multiplication facts increased. Even though the increase was small, it was still an increase.

DISCUSSIONS

This action research study was meaningful and important to all educators. Pupils are believed to engage in daily practice with basic multiplication facts to increase and enhance their ability to memorize them. The collection of data would be over a long period of time. It is also preferred that this study be extended to provide practice at home because it is important to have parents’ and guardians’ participation.