What is arithmetic? "Arithmetic is a branch of mathematics that deals with properties of the counting (and also whole) numbers and fractions and the basic operations applied to these numbers. "
What is Basic Fact? "Any number or mathematical fact or idea that can be instantly recalled without having to resort to a strategy to derive it."
BASIC ARITHMETIC FACTS
HOW TO MASTER and LEARN BASIC FACTS? THESE ARE SIMPLE RULES TO FOLLOW :
: Understanding operations is fundamental to understanding math facts. Situations are symbolically represented by expressions. An addition scenario that shows combined groups, or a subtraction story that shows comparisons, helps students strengthen their understanding of operations, and students who understand operations will find that math facts make sense. CONCEPTUAL UNDERSTANDING
Math fact strategies lie somewhere between counting each object and simply memorizing the answer. They are predictable and efficient ways to find answers. Teaching math fact strategies focuses attention on number sense, operations, patterns, properties, and other critical number concepts. These big ideas related to numbers provide a strong foundation for the strategic reasoning that supports mastering basic math facts. Providing opportunities for students to explore math facts through active engagement and meaningful discussions builds their understanding of critical ideas about numbers STRATEGIC THINKING -
-Once an understanding of operations has been developed and students have explored strategic reasoning to find solutions to basic math facts, it is time to engage students in meaningful practice so they can commit the facts to memory. PRACTICE FOR FLUENCY
SOURCE : Susan O’Connell and John SanGiovanni
(2011)Mastering the Basic Facts. Heinemann.Portsmouth,NH
SOME INTERESTING ACTIVITIES FOR STUDENTS TO LEARN BASIC FACTS
COLOR CODED LIST
A SET OF DOMINOES
A SET OF DICE
A SET OF INDEX CARDS DRAWN TO LOOK LIKE DOMINOES
A PACK OF PLAYING CARD
ANY SNACK WITH LITTLE PIECES
A PENCIL, ERASER AND PAPER
A STRING WITH 100 LITTLE PLASTIC BEADS STRUNG ON IT
A TABLET WITH LITTLE STICKERS
A 100'S CHART
SOURCE : http://voices.yahoo.com/10-free-easy-ways-practice-math-facts-skills-407515.html?cat=25
color coded list of numbers; choose a color for each digit 0-9. (for example: 0-yellow, 1-blue, 2-red, 3orange, 4-purple, 5-green, 6-brown, 7-pink, 8-black, 9-gray) Color helps many students remember. a set of dice (2) alone of with a partner, the student throws the dice and adds or multiplies the two numbers a set of dominoes (base 12 set is best) a set of index cards drawn to look like dominoes; remember to write domino configuration in the color of that number. Student selects a domino and adds, subtracts or multiplies the two numbers. Write answers on the back of each. a pack of playing cards student chooses two cards and adds, subtracts, or multiplies them. a set of flashcards for the level she's on. Flashcards can be purchased at any discount store. School Zone is an inexpensive brand. a pencil, eraser and a pad of paper : Student writes out a fact family, or draws some math facts with real items. a tablet with little stickers. Student makes his own flashcards for the operation he is working on, using stickers and index cards or paper or cardboard scraps. a 100's chart or cheat sheet (see link to print one) Student can use it to count by different numbers (multiply), look for patterns, or practice facts. a string with 100 little plastic beads strung on it. This is a hands on way to count by different numbers. give student a problem and ask her to count it out. (7x8-- she counts out seven groups of eight). any snack with little pieces; fish crackers, cereal pieces, raisins, candies, pretzels; Student makes math facts with snack as she eats them.
HOW DO MANIPULATIVES HELP CHILDREN UNDERSTAND MATHS?
They provide an additional hands-on resource for learning math concept
They help children draw on their practical, real-world knowledge
They engage students in physical activity, which has been shown to enhance memory and understanding
SOURCE : Article : Do Manipulative Help Children Understand Math?
WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO LEARN THE BASIC FACTS?
To free the brain up for other aspects of the mathematics we are involved with. Having a vocabulary of "facts" allows a student's short-term memory to devote its attention to other less obvious aspects of a mathematics problem, or suggest a possible method of attacking the problem. Separate activities are needed to explore and practice strategies than those which are used to build up and to reinforce memorisation of the basic facts.
SOURCE : http://arb.nzcer.org.nz/supportmaterials/maths/concept_map_basic_facts.php
