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App recommendation for times tables

6 replies

Restzol · 29/09/2021 09:41

I’m looking for a times table app to prepare my ds for the year 4 times table check. I know many schools use the rock star app but unfortunately our school doesn’t and, despite online advice being that you can get the app for free, the App Store doesn’t show that nor a route to pay a small fee as an individual rather than an institute, to use it.

I can see free apps but none that mimic the interface used in the government check. For example there are lots of multiple choice games but I want an app where the actual answer is inputted.

I know many people will advise not to teach to test, not worry about testing at all etc etc and I can appreciate this point of view however my ds is very aware of the test and not doing well and I don’t want his confidence dented. School make well meaning suggestions such as throwing out questions relating to everyday life (eg ooh we have 4 guests and 3 pieces of cutlery for each, how many is that?). I’m afraid we need a bit more structure than this! I’d also like him to have a go with a tablet and not just paper and pen as he has a tendency to prioritise speed over accuracy.

Thanks

OP posts:
LetItGoToRuin · 29/09/2021 14:32

The thing I found with my DD was that she didn’t like trying to answer questions on computer/app on the times tables if she hadn’t already learned them thoroughly.

It is probably very obvious to say this, but your DS needs to learn his tables thoroughly first. I don’t think it’s effective to learn by using a 'testing' app, as they keep having to work out answers so will be slow or get lots wrong.

With my DD we started with 2, 5 and 10, and when she learned each set (in random order) I’d then test her on random questions from 2 and 5 mixed up, then 2 and 10, then 5 and 10, then all three together. So, this was having them written down, reciting them, her picking random ones, then when she felt ready to be tested, I would test her.

Gradually we added sets, until at the end of that term she could answer any up to 12x12 fluently. Of course, the last few were quick to learn, as most of the answers were covered previously. It took about a term for my DD to learn them all, with me spending about 10-15 minutes each weekday with her.

For testing purposes, we had our own home TTRS account (on computer, not app) which was inexpensive, though not free. I could set individual tables, or combinations, or all tables, for DD to try, and it can test on the division facts which are also important. However, you wouldn’t need to use TTRS if you don’t want to pay for an app/login from home. Once your DS learns his times tables so he is fluent, he’s unlikely to be anxious about answering them in the check.

Anyway, don’t they get six seconds per question? This is masses of time, as once he's learned them he will recall them within a second, leaving five seconds to type the answer and submit it.

For learning times tables, DD’s school used to play the Supermovers songs in class: www.bbc.co.uk/teach/supermovers/times-table-collection/z4vv6v4

One online tool that might be useful is Hit the Button. I think you might have to pay for the app, but you can access the free game on a computer: www.topmarks.co.uk/maths-games/hit-the-button

AngelinaJoliestoplip · 29/09/2021 14:34

Carol Vorderman’s Maths Factor. Has been amazing for my child. You can place your child on whatever areas you want to work on.

CombatBarbie · 29/09/2021 16:25

2nd Carol vorderman.. Its what I sing if vogue ever comes on the radio 😂

Restzol · 29/09/2021 19:35

@LetItGoToRuin thank you! I didn’t think about on-like accounts, of course! My mind just went straight to app!

And @AngelinaJoliestoplip and @CombatBarbie, Carol Vorderman of course! How could I have forgotten; we did the free course she offered over the summer and I think my DS has had a softer landing in school. Marketing fail there for Carol! Just wasn’t top of mind. I will try all suggestions.

OP posts:
PeppermintMocha · 30/09/2021 09:48

on the squeebles apps, you have to input answers (at least on some of them).

Sarjest · 30/09/2021 14:59

Teach your son the times table as a pp suggested. Get a pack of cards and time him on how many he can get in one minute and see if he can improve on it. I.e. if he's learning the four times table, when he turns over a three he has to shout 12. You need to check his accuracy in these one minute sessions. Times tables are pure recall; make sure he understands counting on and groupings to help. If he's confident in his knowledge any subtle user interfaces on an app won't matter. I also recommend Squeebles but it isn't free. Good luck!

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