News

What’s the smartest way to help kids master math? A groundbreaking new report says it’s not about picking sides in the age-old battle between memorizing multiplication tables and exploring math concepts. Instead, the most effective approach blends both—timed practice and deep discussion—creating a powerful cycle of learning.

Published in Psychological Science in the Public Interest, the report—What the Science of Learning Teaches Us About Arithmetic Fluency—draws on years of developmental cognitive research to redefine what arithmetic fluency really means and how to teach it better.

“We want to be clear: Educators don’t have to choose between timed practice and rich classroom discussions,” said lead author Nicole McNeil from the University of Notre Dame. “It’s the pairing of both that strengthens memory and understanding.”

The authors—McNeil, Nancy Jordan (University of Delaware), Alexandria Viegut (University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire), and Daniel Ansari (Western University)—explain that arithmetic fluency is more than just quick recall of facts like 6 × 8 = 48. It also involves recognizing patterns and using number relationships to solve problems. And it starts early—right from a child’s preschool years.

Just as phonics is key to reading, early number sense forms the foundation for math. The report recommends activities like counting cereal bits or arranging blocks to strengthen these skills. From there, kids progress through stages—from intuitive “I just know” thinking to articulating strategies like “start with the bigger number,” and eventually reaching automatic recall through structured practice.

The report offers a practical teaching roadmap:

Why does it matter? Because math fluency doesn’t just help with test scores. Studies link it to success in algebra, problem solving, and even long-term academic and income outcomes.

An accompanying commentary by developmental psychologist Melissa Libertus adds depth, pointing to the potential of digital tools and the impact of parents’ math anxiety.

Discover the latest Business News, Budget 2025 News, Sensex, and Nifty updates. Obtain Personal Finance insights, tax queries, and expert opinions on Moneycontrol or download the Moneycontrol App to stay updated!

${res.must_watch_article[0].headline}

Sensex Today Jammu Kashmir News Live DC vs KKR Live Score Canada Election Results Q4 Results 2025 Live Ather Energy IPO GMP JKBOSE 10th Result 2025 TS SSC Results 2025 NEET Admit Card 2025 IPL Points Table 2025

Business Markets Stocks India News City News Economy Mutual Funds Personal Finance IPO News Startups

Home Currencies Commodities Pre-Market IPO Global Market Bonds

Home Loans up to 50 Lakhs Credit Cards Lifetime Free Finance TrackerNew Fixed Deposits Fixed Deposit Comparison Fixed Income

Home MC 30 Top Ranked Funds ETFs Mutual Fund Screener

Income Tax Calculator EMI Calculator Retirement Planning Gratuity Calculator

Stock Markets

News18 Firstpost CNBC TV18 News18 Hindi Cricketnext Overdrive Topper Learning

About Us Contact Us Advisory Alert Advertise with Us SupportDisclaimer Privacy Policy Cookie Policy Terms & Conditions Financial Terms (Glossary) Sitemap Investors

You are already a Moneycontrol Pro user.