Year 4 MTC
Year 4 Multiplication Check (MTC)
Helping your child become a Times Tables Rockstar!
As part of the Year 4 National Curriculum, all children are expected to develop a fluent knowledge of their multiplication tables up to 12 × 12. In June, Year 4 pupils across the country will take part in the Multiplication Tables Check (MTC).
At Bleak Hill Primary School, we place great importance on developing children's confidence and fluency in mathematics. Regular times tables practice is an important part of this, and there are lots of simple ways you can support your child at home.
What is the Multiplication Tables Check?
The Multiplication Tables Check is a short, online assessment designed to see how quickly and accurately children can recall their multiplication facts.
The check:
Takes place in June.
Consists of 25 multiplication questions.
Gives children 6 seconds to answer each question.
Includes questions from all multiplication tables up to 12 × 12.
Is completed on a computer or tablet.
Takes approximately 5 minutes to complete.
Children will have three practice questions before the assessment begins.
How can you help your child at home?
The most important thing is to make times tables practice a regular, positive part of your child's routine. Just 5–10 minutes of practice each day can make a huge difference.
Here are some simple ideas:
1. Little and often
Try to practise for a few minutes each day rather than completing one long session. Consistency is key!
2. Practise in a random order
Knowing the times table in order is great, but children also need to recall individual facts when they are mixed up. For example:
7 × 8 = ?
6 × 9 = ?
12 × 4 = ?
3. Practise division facts too
Help your child understand the relationship between multiplication and division.
For example:
8 × 6 = 48
6 × 8 = 48
48 ÷ 6 = 8
48 ÷ 8 = 6
4. Make it part of everyday life
Practise times tables during everyday activities:
In the car or on the school run.
While preparing dinner.
Walking to the shops.
Taking turns asking questions with family members.
5. Use games and challenges
Make practice enjoyable! Play times tables bingo, use flashcards or challenge your child to beat their previous score on an online game.
6. Celebrate progress
Praise effort, determination and improvement. Building confidence is just as important as getting the answers right.
Useful websites and resources
There are lots of fantastic FREE resources available to help children practise their times tables at home.
1. Times Tables Rock Stars (TTRS)
Our children are familiar with Times Tables Rock Stars. Children can use different game modes to improve their speed and accuracy.
We particularly recommend Soundcheck, which closely replicates the format of the MTC, with 25 questions and 6 seconds to answer each one.
Website: https://ttrockstars.com/
2. Mathsframe – Multiplication Tables Check
An excellent resource that allows children to practise a check very similar to the actual assessment. It is particularly useful for becoming familiar with the timed questions.
Website: https://mathsframe.co.uk/en/resources/resource/477/Multiplication-Tables-Check
3. Topmarks – Hit the Button
A fun, interactive game where children can practise multiplication and division facts against the clock. Children can select individual times tables or practise a mixture.
Website: https://www.topmarks.co.uk/maths-games/hit-the-button
4. Times Tables
A fantastic website offering a range of activities, games and quizzes. Children can practise individual tables before moving on to mixed questions.
Website: https://www.timestables.co.uk/
5. BBC Super Movers
A great way to learn times tables through movement, music and dance! Particularly useful for children who enjoy a more active approach to learning.
Website: https://www.bbc.co.uk/teach/supermovers
6. Topmarks – Times Tables Games
A collection of interactive games to help children develop their multiplication knowledge and improve their recall.
Website: https://www.topmarks.co.uk/maths-games/7-11-years/times-tables