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Multiplication Tables Check
The Multiplication Tables Check
The Multiplication Tables Check (MTC) is a statutory assessment in schools, for children in Year 4, administered in the Summer Term 2022. The purpose of the MTC is to determine whether pupils can recall their times tables (up to 12 x 12) fluently, which is essential for future success in mathematics. It will also help the school to identify pupils who may need additional support.
Expectations for times tables for each year group:
| Year 1 | Count in multiples of 2, 5 and 10. Recall and use all doubles to 10 and corresponding halves. |
| Year 2 |
Recall and use multiplication and division facts for the 2, 5 and 10 multiplication tables, Including recognising odd and even numbers. |
| Year 3 | Recall and use multiplication and division facts for the 3, 4 and 8 multiplication tables. |
| Year 4 | Recall and use multiplication and division facts for multiplication tables up to 12x12. |
What is the Year 4 Times Tables Test?
The Year 4 Times Tables Test, known by the government and schools as the Year 4 Multiplication Tables Check (MTC), is an annual check to see if Year 4 pupils in England and Wales have a good level of times tables knowledge. Primary-school children are expected to know all their times tables up to 12x12. Under the current National Curriculum, children are supposed to know their times tables by the end of Year 4.
Why has the test been put in place?
The DfE says that the check is part of a new focus on mastering numeracy, giving children the skills and knowledge they need for secondary school and beyond. The purpose of the MTC is to determine whether Y4 pupils can recall their multiplication tables fluently (being able to answer times tables questions accurately and quickly, without having to work out the answers).
What is the Year 4 times tables test’s format?
The Multiplication Tables Check is an online, on-screen digital assessment meaning the children will take the test on a desktop computer, laptop or tablet (such as an iPad) at school.
The times tables test will be timed, with the entire assessment lasting approximately 5 minutes in total. The children will be set a handful of practice questions to begin with. Following the practice questions, the test itself will comprise of 25 questions; children must answer each question within 6 seconds so the whole test will take less than 5 minutes.
How will the data be used?
Pupils' individual results will be made available to schools, and the Department for Education will report national results to track how they change over time. Schools will be required to report the results to parents or carers. Children will not ‘pass’ or ‘fail’ the check; it will provide a snapshot of how fluent they are with multiplication facts up to 12 x 12.
The DfE says the purpose of the check is to help teachers identify which children are falling behind and target areas where they’re not being given a chance to succeed.
What will parents receive?
Children will receive a score out of 25. In June 2022, schools will be able to view pupil results. The school will report individual results to parents or carers as part of end of year school report arrangements.
How can I help my child:
Times tables are learnt best when learnt regularly and in short bursts. At Jenyns, we use 'Times Tables Rock Stars' to help learn multiplication and division tables. This interactive tool is a fun way of learning times tables facts as well as being highly addictive! The children are able to play against their friends, teachers.
