Color Coded Multiplication Chart Activities

Grade 3^rd  –  6^th

Hands on Activities:

1.     This is a great first day of school activity for grades 4, 5 or 6. 

Color a blank copy of the multiplication chart. 

§        Make a color transparency and put it on the overhead

§        Give each student a blank copy of the multiplication chart.

§        Color in this order:  blue, yellow, red, orange, purple then green.  (If you start with green first, many students go “too far” with the green, and then need another copy.)

§        Keep this in their math binders / folders

2.     Make color coordinated flash cards.

§        Each card needs to have the students name on it.  Ask the student to print their name very small but the numbers nice and big.  The problem goes on one side of the card and the product or fact goes on the other side of the card.

§        Remember, there are 144 cards to be filled out front and back!  This is a big project for an 8 – 10 year old but they can do this.  Schedule 15 minute blocks either at the beginning of math class or at the end of math and do a few at a time.  Those who are already finished can quietly practice theirs at their desk while the rest finish making their cards.   

§        Make sure to have a student collect left over cards and markers for their group and put them away. 

3.     Play WAR with the multiplication flash cards.  I doesn’t matter what side the card is up when playing.

If Matthew plays 3 X 4 and Jacob plays 15, then Jacob wins both cards.  The person with all or the most cards wins.  Make sure each flash card has the students name on them somewhere so that when it’s time to give back all of the cards to the right person, everyone will know what card belongs to whom.  

4.     This is a great sponge activity…  “ Children, when you are finished with your work, please get out your flash cards and look them over quietly.”  This gives them something to do with their hands and the color is visual. 

Suggestions: 

§        Take a grade on accuracy, neatness, and completeness – all facts 1 – 12.

§        Give rewards for having them several weeks later.   “Flash card check” 

- There are pencils with the multiplication facts written on the pencil!

§        Give rewards when students are using them quietly!