Approaches to Learning Maths Facts and Developing Number Sense

The Best Approaches to Learning Maths Facts and Developing Number Sense

Mathematics is more than just memorising formulas—it's about developing number sense, which helps us understand the relationships between numbers and how they work together. Strong number sense leads to confident problem-solving and deeper mathematical thinking. So, what are the best ways to learn maths facts effectively while building this essential skill? Let’s explore!

Understanding Maths Facts vs. Number Sense

Before diving into learning strategies, it’s important to recognise the difference between maths facts and number sense:

- Maths facts are fundamental calculations, such as multiplication tables or simple addition facts (e.g., 7 + 5 = 12).

- Number sense is the ability to recognise patterns, estimate values, and understand numbers intuitively in various contexts.

While memorising maths facts can be helpful, true mastery comes from integrating those facts into a flexible understanding of numbers.

Effective Strategies for Learning Maths Facts

1. Make It Meaningful

Instead of pure memorisation, **connect maths facts to real-life situations**. For example, understanding multiplication as repeated addition helps solidify the concept.

2. Use Visual Representations

- Arrays: Seeing groups of objects arranged in rows and columns reinforces multiplication.

- Number lines: Using number lines to add, subtract, or multiply can enhance numerical intuition.

- Ten frames: These visual aids support early number recognition and addition skills.

3. Practice with Games and Puzzles

Incorporate maths games such as:

- Card games and board games that involve arithmetic

- Apps that turn multiplication and addition practice into interactive challenges

- Puzzles that require numerical reasoning

Gamified learning makes practice enjoyable and memorable.

4. Teach Strategies Over Rote Memorisation

Instead of memorising “7 × 8 = 56” without context, use strategies like:

- Doubling and halving:** If 7 × 4 = 28, then doubling that gives 7 × 8 = 56.

- Breaking numbers apart: Solve 9 × 7 by calculating (10 × 7) - (1 × 7).

These techniques deepen understanding rather than forcing memorisation.

Developing Number Sense

1. Encourage Mental Maths

Mental calculations help build fluency and flexibility. Try estimating grocery totals or solving maths problems without paper to strengthen this skill.

2. Explore Patterns and Relationships

Recognising patterns in numbers leads to insights. For example:

- Odd and even numbers follow predictable sequences.

- Multiplication tables reveal symmetrical relationships (e.g., 4 × 6 and 6 × 4 both equal 24).

3. Strengthen Estimation Skills

Encourage **estimating answers before calculating**. This ability helps in everyday scenarios, like checking whether restaurant bills or measurements seem reasonable.

4. Connect Maths to the Real World

Integrate number sense into daily life:

- Cooking measurements (e.g., doubling a recipe requires multiplication).

- Budgeting and financial calculations.

- Comparing distances on a map using ratios or scaling.

The more practical maths feels, the more intuitive it becomes.

Final Thoughts

Learning maths facts should go beyond rote memorization—it’s about building a strong foundation of **number sense** that enhances problem-solving, logical reasoning, and real-world application. By using engaging strategies, exploring patterns, and encouraging mental maths, anyone can develop a flexible, confident approach to mathematics.