Speed Math for Kids

1. Master the Speed Mathematics Method for Rapid Calculations

The kids (and adults) who are geniuses at mathematics don't have better brains than you — they have better methods.

Foundation of speed math. The Speed Mathematics Method is based on using reference numbers and circles to simplify calculations. This approach allows for quick mental math, often faster than using a calculator. The key is to break down complex problems into simpler steps that can be easily computed in your head.

Practical applications. This method can be applied to various mathematical operations, including multiplication, division, addition, and subtraction. By mastering these techniques, students can perform calculations that seem impossible to others, such as multiplying two-digit numbers or doing long division mentally. The speed and accuracy gained from this method can be applied in everyday situations, from shopping to sports statistics.

Benefits of Speed Mathematics:

• Faster than traditional methods
• Increases mental agility
• Boosts mathematical confidence
• Applicable to real-life situations

2. Simplify Multiplication Using Reference Numbers and Circles

Using the speed mathematics method, it doesn't matter if you forget one of your tables. Why? Because if you don't know an answer, you can simply do a lightning calculation to get an instant solution.

Reference numbers simplify calculations. The core of the Speed Mathematics Method for multiplication involves using reference numbers (usually 10, 100, or multiples thereof) and drawing circles to represent the difference between the numbers being multiplied and the reference number. This approach breaks down complex multiplications into simpler addition or subtraction problems.

Versatility of the method. This technique can be applied to a wide range of numbers, from simple single-digit multiplications to complex two-digit or even three-digit multiplications. The method is particularly useful for numbers close to 10, 100, or 1000, but can be adapted for other reference numbers as well. By practicing this method, students can quickly perform multiplications that would typically require a calculator or lengthy written calculations.

Steps for Speed Multiplication:

1. Choose a reference number close to both numbers being multiplied
2. Draw circles and write the difference between each number and the reference number
3. Add or subtract diagonally
4. Multiply the result by the reference number
5. Multiply the numbers in the circles
6. Add or subtract the results to get the final answer

3. Conquer Addition and Subtraction with Mental Math Strategies

If you use your imagination you can use these strategies to solve any multiplication problem.

Rethink traditional methods. The book introduces alternative approaches to addition and subtraction that prioritize mental calculation over written methods. These strategies often involve rounding numbers up or down to make calculations easier, then adjusting the result accordingly.

Practical techniques. For addition, the method often involves adding from left to right, rather than right to left as taught in traditional methods. For subtraction, the key is to round the number being subtracted to a convenient value, perform the subtraction, and then adjust the result. These methods reduce the need for carrying and borrowing, making mental calculations faster and more intuitive.

Key Strategies for Mental Addition and Subtraction:

• Round numbers to nearest 10 or 100
• Add or subtract the rounded number
• Adjust the result by adding or subtracting the difference
• For multi-digit problems, work from left to right
• Use knowledge of number relationships (e.g., combinations that make 10)

4. Demystify Division Through Factors and Mental Techniques

Break big problems down to little problems and you can do them.

Simplify through factors. The book introduces a method of division that breaks down complex divisors into simpler factors. This approach allows for easier mental calculations and reduces the complexity of long division problems. By using factors, students can tackle divisions that would typically require written calculations or a calculator.

Mental division techniques. For mental division, the book introduces a method of rounding the divisor to a convenient number (usually a multiple of 10), performing the division, and then adjusting the result. This approach allows for quick estimations and exact calculations for a wide range of division problems.

Division Strategies:

1. Break divisors into factors when possible
2. For mental division, round the divisor to a convenient number
3. Perform the simplified division
4. Adjust the result based on the difference between the actual divisor and the rounded number
5. Practice with various divisors to build confidence and speed

5. Unlock the Power of Fractions and Decimals

When I was in primary school I noticed that many of my teachers had problems when they had to explain fractions. But fractions are easy.

Demystify fractions. The book presents fractions as a natural part of everyday life, from telling time to dividing food. By relating fractions to familiar concepts, it removes the intimidation factor often associated with them. The key is to understand that fractions are simply a way of expressing division.

Simplify operations with fractions. The book introduces straightforward methods for adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing fractions. These methods often involve cross-multiplication or finding common denominators, but are presented in a way that makes them easy to understand and apply mentally.

Fraction and Decimal Techniques:

• Visualize fractions in real-life contexts
• Use cross-multiplication for adding and subtracting fractions with different denominators
• Multiply fractions by multiplying numerators and denominators separately
• Divide fractions by flipping the second fraction and multiplying
• Convert between fractions and decimals using division

6. Enhance Problem-Solving with Checking Techniques

Casting out nines is one of the most useful tools available for working with mathematics. I use it almost every day.

Importance of verification. The book emphasizes the importance of checking answers, not just for accuracy but as a way to build confidence and understanding. The primary method introduced is "casting out nines," a technique that can be applied to check results of addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.

Casting out nines. This method involves reducing numbers to their digital roots (the sum of their digits, repeated until a single digit is obtained) and performing the operation on these simplified numbers. If the digital root of the result matches the digital root of the calculated answer, it's likely correct. While not foolproof, this method catches most errors and is quick to perform mentally.

Steps for Casting Out Nines:

1. Reduce each number in the problem to its digital root
2. Perform the operation with the digital roots
3. Reduce the result to its digital root
4. Compare with the digital root of your calculated answer
5. If they match, your answer is likely correct

7. Boost Mathematical Confidence and Intelligence

If you are good at maths, people think you are smart. People will treat you like you are a genius.

Build self-esteem through math. The book emphasizes that mathematical ability is not innate but learned through better methods. By mastering these techniques, students can dramatically improve their math skills, leading to increased confidence not just in mathematics, but in their overall intellectual abilities.

Practical application builds skills. The key to mastering these techniques is regular practice and application in real-life situations. The book encourages readers to use these methods in everyday calculations, from shopping to sports statistics. This practical approach ensures that the skills become ingrained and automatic.

Benefits of Improved Math Skills:

• Increased overall confidence
• Enhanced problem-solving abilities
• Improved mental agility
• Better performance in school and work
• Ability to impress others with quick calculations

Last updated: November 18, 2024