8 times table

Mastering the multiplication table is a crucial skill for every child. One particular set that might seem challenging is the table of 8. Fortunately, there are numerous techniques and strategies to help make learning this table easier and more fun.

Understand How Multiplication Property Works

Multiplication is simply repeated addition. By understanding how the multiplication property works, you can easily derive patterns within the table of 8. For instance, if you know that 8 x 6 = 48, then it’s easy to see that 8 x 7 = 48 + 8 = 56. This basic comprehension of how multiplication operates will lay a strong foundation for learning the entire table.

Use Visual Aids and Manipulatives

Visual aids are an excellent way to make abstract concepts like multiplication more tangible and easier to understand. Here are some ideas:

• Finger method: Using your fingers as a visual aid, you can quickly multiply any number by 8. For example, to find the product of 8 x 3, hold out three fingers on one hand and count the remaining five fingers on both hands. The result is 15; now, double this figure twice (30, then 60) to get the correct answer, which is 24. This method works well up to 8 x 5.
• Arrays: Arrange objects such as coins or counters into rows and columns to represent multiplication problems. For example, create four rows with eight objects in each row to represent 8 x 4. Count the total number of objects in the array, which is 32.

8 times table chart

Practice Skip Counting by 8

Skip counting is a great way to familiarize yourself with the multiples of 8, and it can also help improve mental math skills. Start by counting from zero and adding 8 to each subsequent number: 0, 8, 16, 24, 32, 40, 48, 56, 64, 72, 80… Once you become comfortable with this pattern, try starting from different numbers or counting backward as well!

The Doubling Strategy

An alternative approach to skip counting involves doubling the multiples of four. Since 8 is twice the value of 4, this technique can simplify the process. For example, to find 8 x 6, first calculate 4 x 6 (which is 24), and then double that result to get 48.

Create Mnemonic Devices or Rhymes

Mnemonic devices and rhymes are useful memory aids that can make learning the multiplication table more enjoyable. Here are some examples:

• Alligator rhyme: “Eight alligators ate eight plates, so eight times eight will give sixty-eight.”
• Acrostic phrases: Assign each multiple of 8 a word that begins with the same letter. For instance, “A Big Cat Drives Eight Fast Green Horses” represents the sequence 8, 16, 24, 32, 40, 48, 56, and 64.

Feel free to create your own mnemonics and rhymes, or search online for more inspiration!

Review and Reinforce Regularly

Regular practice is a critical component of learning any subject matter, including multiplication tables. Here are some tips to keep the process engaging:

• Flashcards: Create flashcards with one side displaying the problem (e.g., 8 x 3) and the other side showing the solution (24). Shuffle the cards and practice solving them in random order.
• Timed tests: Challenge yourself by setting a timer and seeing how many problems you can solve correctly within a certain time frame. As your skills improve, aim to beat your previous records!
• Games: Turn learning into playtime by incorporating multiplication facts into fun games like bingo, dice roll challenges, or board games. There are also numerous apps and websites available that offer entertaining ways to practice math skills.