Multiplication is an important mathematical concept, and having a strong hold on it is necessary for handling complex mathematical operations. To begin with, every child must learn times tables to become proficient at multiplying numbers. The fact that multiplication tables are a classic example of rote learning; most of us have learned them through repetition.
However, educators and parents now understand that it is important for kids to learn through alternate methods. Art integration in education, including mathematics, is a fun way of helping kids strengthen their math skills. Therefore, after sharing a printable math and art integration lesson plan, we are here to share with you a fun multiplication craft that kids can make, learn from, and play games with. So, here we begin!
Cute multiplication craft to learn times tables
Things you’ll need:
- Colored paper (white, pink, and green)
- Black marker
- Green straw
- Glue
- Tape
- Scissors (Disclaimer: Adult supervision is required as a pair of scissors is a sharp tool. Please be vigilant.)
Steps to follow:
Start by cutting two squares out of the white and pink-colored sheets. The white square is 13 x 13 cm in size, and the pink square is 10 x 10 cm.
Take the pink square and fold it diagonally, as shown in the image above, to obtain a right-angled triangle.
Now, fold the triangle along the midline to form a smaller triangle. Fold the obtained triangle once again to form yet another right-angled triangle.
Now, unfold the right-angled triangle. You will notice a crease in the center. Use the crease as a reference line, and fold the right side of the triangle as shown above. Make sure the right side goes beyond the reference line after folding.
Repeat the same with the left side. You will obtain the above shape upon completion of this step.
Use a black marker to draw a pointy leaf on the pink paper. Follow the same steps as given above to fold the white paper, too, and draw the shape of a curved leaf on it.
Use a scissor to cut the pink and white paper along the marked lines. Help the child if this step is too hard for them. Open the folds to reveal two beautiful flowers with 12 petals each.
Hold the pink flower and make small cuts along the creases of the leaves. Make sure you don’t cut it to the center of the flower. Halfway through is more than enough.
Now, let’s assemble the multiplication flower. Apply a little glue in the center of the white flower and paste the pink flower on top of it.
Use small pieces of white and green paper to draw a circle and two leaves. Cut them out and keep them handy.
Paste the small white circle in the center of the flower and write the number whose times table you want to learn and practice.
Mark the pink petals from 1 to 12 and the white petals with the product of the corresponding numbers and the main number. For example, we have written the products 6 and 8 on the white leaf for multiplication between 2 x 3 and 2 x 4.
Next, turn over the flower and fix a green straw at the back using tape. Glue the green leaves we had prepared earlier to the straw to complete the multiplication craft.
So, here’s how the flowers turn out in the end. Don’t they look cute?
Have the kids prepare as many flowers as they would like. They can make flowers for the multiplication tables they find most difficult to remember and use them as a learning tool to memorize the products.
Games to play with our flower multiplication craft
Multiplication games are a great way to reinforce multiplication facts and improve overall math skills. It helps improve children’s memory and mathematical proficiency. Let’s admit it. Memorizing those times tables when we were little often felt frustrating because it was a monotonous activity. Using enjoyable multiplication games can really dispel the monotony and motivate kids to practice multiplication willingly. Given below are two games kids can play using their multiplication craft.
1. Multiplication quiz
This is a partner activity wherein two kids can quiz each other using their multiplication craft.
- The first child refers to their flower and asks a multiplication fact to the second child.
- The second child gives an answer, which the first one confirms after looking at the flower.
- If the answer is correct, the second child gets a point.
- Now, the second child quizzes the first one in the same way.
- The child who accumulates 15 points first is the winner!
2. Multiplication board game
Let kids choose a dice board game to improve their fluency in multiplication. Something like Snakes and Ladders or Monopoly Junior would be a good choice.
- Ask them to keep their multiplication flowers by their sides.
- Before a child rolls the dice, they must answer a multiplication fact asked by their opponent. The opponent can use their craft to decide which multiplication fact to ask and check the answer.
- If the answer is correct, only then the child gets to roll the dice and proceed with the game. If not, they lose a turn and pass the dice to the other child.
- The same sequence continues until one of the players wins the board game.
That’s a wrap!
Kids learn best when they are performing hands-on activities. Introducing multiplication through crafts and creativity can keep kids engaged and motivate them to understand the concepts better. So, if you are a math teacher who plans to make learning more interesting for your students or a parent who wants to make at-home learning fun and engaging, our multiplication craft is there for the kids to try, learn, and enjoy!
I am Priyanka Sonkushre, a writer and blogger. I am the person behind “One Loving Mama,” a mom blog. Equipped with a Bachelor’s degree along with an MBA, my healthcare background helps me deeply understand learning difficulties. I know how challenging it can be for parents to find the right resources to help their children excel in life. So, here I am to blend my healthcare expertise with my parenting experience to create valuable and helpful resources for parents and teachers supporting children with learning differences. If you wish, you can follow me on Facebook and LinkedIn.