What to notice
Every answer in the 4s is even, and every second answer is also in the 8s: 8, 16, 24, 32, 40, 48. The last digits run 4, 8, 2, 6, 0 and then repeat, so 4 × 6 = 24 and 4 × 11 = 44 both end in 4.
Each answer is double the matching answer in the 2s. 2 × 9 = 18, so 4 × 9 = 36. If your child knows the 2s well, write the two lists side by side and let them spot the doubling themselves; finding a pattern is more fun than being told it.
One of these facts is a square: 4 × 4 = 16, and a 4 by 4 grid of dots makes a perfect square shape. Drawing it gives the fact a picture, and it is a first look at the square numbers that turn up again in the 6s, 7s and 8s.
How to practise at home
- Say the double-double out loud: “4 × 6: double 6 is 12, double 12 is 24.” Do a few most days until your child can do it in their head without saying the middle step.
- Count legs. Three dogs, five chairs, eight cats: each one is a 4s fact with a picture attached.
- Use coins. Four quarters make a dollar, so ask how many quarters are in 2 dollars or in 3 dollars. That is 4 × 2 and 4 × 3 with real money to check against.
- When the double-double is quick, use the drill on this page to see which facts are memorized and which are still worked out. Facts that take longer than three seconds are the ones to say a few more times.
Slips to watch for
- Doubling only once and answering 14 for 4 × 7. Ask “is that two sevens or four sevens?”
- Swapping neighbours in the middle of the table, such as 28 for 4 × 6 or 24 for 4 × 7. Saying the whole fact aloud, not only the answer, keeps each answer attached to its fact.
- Answering 46 for 4 × 12. Split 12 into 10 and 2: 4 × 10 = 40, 4 × 2 = 8, and 40 + 8 = 48.