Techniques for Mastering Mental Arithmetic

By Pak Ming Keung

Pak Ming Keung is the founder of Richmond Maths Tutors. The Richmond Tutors team love maths and their aim is to pass this passion for maths to their students.

To achieve this, Pak Ming believes understanding is paramount, as through understanding any exam is achievable.

Developing strong mental arithmetic skills is crucial for children, as they build a solid mathematical foundation in preparation for the 11+. Mental arithmetic encompasses a range of skills and concepts related to numbers, including counting, ordering, comparing, estimating, and performing mental calculations.

Here are some effective strategies to help start - or improve - mental arithmetic:

1. Build Number Sense - Engage your child in activities that promote counting, ordering numbers, and recognising number patterns. Use manipulatives like base-ten blocks, number lines, or place value charts to enhance understanding.

2. Master Basic Facts - Focus on mastering addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division facts. Encourage regular practice through drills (quick, repetitive exercises), flashcards, or online maths games to increase speed and accuracy.

3. Develop Mental Calculation Strategies - Teach your child mental calculation strategies such as counting on, or counting back, making tens, also known as friendly numbers. Encourage them to break down complex problems into simpler components.

4. Utilise Visualisation Techniques - Encourage your child to create mental images of numbers and visualise operations. Use visual aids like diagrams, arrays, number lines and numicons (see left) to help them understand and solve problems.

5. Real-World Applications - Connect mental arithmetic to real-life situations, such as shopping, cooking, or sport. Involve your child in activities that require mental calculations, like calculating change or determining quantities.

6. Problem-Solving Skills -Teach your child problem-solving strategies, such as understanding the problem, devising a plan, and checking the solution. Encourage them to solve a variety of word problems, puzzles, or logic games that require mental arithmetic.

7. Regular Practice - Dedicate specific time for mental arithmetic practice each day. Provide a range of exercises, including timed drills, mental maths challenges, or worksheets, to reinforce skills.

8. Use Technology - Incorporate educational maths apps or online resources that offer interactive mental arithmetic exercises. Utilise adaptive learning platforms that adjust difficulty based on your child's progress.

9. Collaborative Learning - Encourage peer-to-peer learning, where your child can explain and discuss mental arithmetic strategies with other children, or amongst the family! Promote group activities or games that involve mental calculations, fostering a supportive and engaging learning environment.

10. Positive Reinforcement - Provide praise and recognition for your child’s efforts and progress in mental arithmetic. Celebrate achievements and motivate them to persevere through challenges.

Summary

This is obviously not an exhaustive list, as children have different learning styles and abilities so by implementing some or all of these strategies, both children and adults can improve their mental arithmetic skills. With consistent effort and guidance, children can develop strong mental arithmetic abilities, boosting their overall mathematical proficiency.