Maths History
Victorian times table recitation
Look at old-fashioned chanting and how to adapt it kindly for modern learners.
Quick answer
Victorian times table recitation was a traditional way of learning multiplication that involved chanting tables out loud, often in class. Today, we can still use this method in a kind, modern way to help children learn multiplication tables.Learning outcome
By the end of this page, you will understand how Victorian times table recitation worked and how to use it in a fun, supportive way to help children learn multiplication tables. Success signs:- You can explain what Victorian times table recitation was
- You can show how to use chanting in a kind way
- You can give examples of how to chant multiplication tables
- You can help a child feel confident when learning times tables
Why this matters
Learning multiplication tables is important for children because it helps them solve problems quickly and easily. In Victorian times, children had to learn tables by heart through chanting, which helped them remember. Today, we still use this method, but in a more caring way that doesn't pressure children. Chanting can help children learn multiplication tables in a fun, active way that works for different learning styles.How it works
In Victorian times, children learned multiplication tables by chanting them out loud. This method was used in schools and at home. Children would repeat tables together, sometimes in groups or individually. The idea was to learn by repetition and memory. Today, we can still use this method, but with kindness and flexibility. We can use chanting to help children learn multiplication tables, but we also make sure they understand what they are learning and don't feel stressed.Examples you can see
Let's look at how a child might learn the 5 times table using Victorian-style chanting:| Chanting | What it means |
|---|---|
| One times five is five | 1 group of 5 is 5 |
| Two times five is ten | 2 groups of 5 is 10 |
| Three times five is fifteen | 3 groups of 5 is 15 |
| Four times five is twenty | 4 groups of 5 is 20 |
| Five times five is twenty-five | 5 groups of 5 is 25 |
Try it as a mini adventure
Let's go on a multiplication adventure! Adventure: The Chanting Challenge You are a young Victorian student in a school where everyone must learn their times tables by chanting. You have to learn the 7 times table. 1st time: Say "One times seven is seven" and clap once. 2nd time: Say "Two times seven is fourteen" and clap twice. 3rd time: Say "Three times seven is twenty-one" and clap three times. 4th time: Say "Four times seven is twenty-eight" and clap four times. 5th time: Say "Five times seven is thirty-five" and clap five times. 6th time: Say "Six times seven is forty-two" and clap six times. 7th time: Say "Seven times seven is forty-nine" and clap seven times. 8th time: Say "Eight times seven is fifty-six" and clap eight times. 9th time: Say "Nine times seven is sixty-three" and clap nine times. 10th time: Say "Ten times seven is seventy" and clap ten times. 11th time: Say "Eleven times seven is seventy-seven" and clap eleven times. 12th time: Say "Twelve times seven is eighty-four" and clap twelve times. You can do this with a friend or by yourself. Try to chant the table in order and then try to chant it backwards.Common mistakes
- Mistake: Thinking that chanting tables means shouting or being mean. Why it happens: Some people think Victorian methods were harsh. Fix: Chanting can be gentle and fun. Use a calm voice and make it enjoyable.
- Mistake: Forgetting to use visual aids or hands. Why it happens: Some children learn better with visual or physical help. Fix: Use fingers, blocks, or drawings to help with the chanting.
- Mistake: Pressuring children to get it right the first time. Why it happens: Adults might want quick results. Fix: Be patient and let children learn at their own pace.
Parent and carer guide
Parents and carers can help children learn multiplication tables by using chanting in a kind way. Start by choosing a table that your child is learning, such as the 3 times table. Sit with your child and chant the table together. Use a calm voice and encourage your child to repeat after you. You can use clapping, tapping, or dancing to make it fun. If your child makes a mistake, gently correct them and try again. Let your child know that it's okay to make mistakes and that learning takes time. You can also make it a game by timing how fast they can chant the table or by using a reward chart for progress.Practice questions
- What was the main way children learned multiplication tables in Victorian times?
- How can you chant multiplication tables in a kind way?
- Which times table did we use in our adventure?
- Why is it important to use visual aids when chanting tables?
- What should you do if your child makes a mistake while chanting?
- By chanting them out loud
- Use a calm voice, make it fun, and be patient
- The 7 times table
- To help children understand what they are learning
- Gently correct them and try again
FAQ
What was the Victorian way of learning times tables?
In Victorian times, children learned multiplication tables by chanting them out loud. This was often done in groups or individually in schools and at home.
Can I still use chanting to teach multiplication tables today?
Yes, you can use chanting today, but in a kind and supportive way that helps children learn without pressure.
How can I make chanting fun for my child?
You can make it fun by clapping, dancing, using songs, or playing games with the chants.
Is it okay if my child makes mistakes while chanting?
Yes, it's normal to make mistakes. Mistakes are part of learning. Be patient and encourage your child to try again.
What are some other ways to learn multiplication tables besides chanting?
Other ways include using arrays, drawing pictures, using objects like blocks or counters, and playing games.