4 times table chants and rhythms

Quick answer

Learning outcome

• You can clap or stomp a rhythm for each 4 times table fact
• You can sing or chant the 4 times table with a beat
• You can count in 4s using your body or objects
• You can use your chant to solve simple 4 times table problems

Why this matters

• Quickly solving maths problems
• Learning to play music or dance
• Building confidence with numbers
• Making learning feel exciting and not boring

How it works

1. Choose a beat – decide how many beats you will use for each number
2. Count in 4s – go 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, etc.
3. Use your body – clap, stomp, tap, or snap to match the numbers
4. Make a song – add words or sounds to each beat
5. Repeat often – practice your chant every day to remember it

Examples you can see

• Clap once for 1 x 4 = 4
• Clap twice for 2 x 4 = 8
• Clap three times for 3 x 4 = 12
• Clap four times for 4 x 4 = 16

• Stomp once and say “4”
• Stomp twice and say “8”
• Stomp three times and say “12”
• Stomp four times and say “16”

• “One times four is four, two times four is eight, three times four is twelve, four times four is sixteen”

• Tap your hand on your knee for 1 x 4 = 4
• Tap twice for 2 x 4 = 8
• Tap three times for 3 x 4 = 12
• Tap four times for 4 x 4 = 16

Try it as a mini adventure

1. Clue 1: “I have 1 group of 4 treasures.” You say “1 x 4 = 4” and clap once.
2. Clue 2: “I have 2 groups of 4 treasures.” You say “2 x 4 = 8” and stomp twice.
3. Clue 3: “I have 3 groups of 4 treasures.” You say “3 x 4 = 12” and tap your hand three times.
4. Clue 4: “I have 4 groups of 4 treasures.” You say “4 x 4 = 16” and jump four times.
5. Clue 5: “I have 5 groups of 4 treasures.” You say “5 x 4 = 20” and do a funny dance move five times.

Common mistakes

• Mistake: Thinking 4 x 4 = 12 instead of 16.
  • Why it happens: Confusing 4 x 4 with 4 + 4 = 8, then adding 4 more to get 12.
  • Fix: Use your body to show 4 groups of 4. Count 4, 8, 12, 16. Use fingers or blocks.
• Mistake: Forgetting to count in 4s when chanting.
  • Why it happens: Not listening carefully or getting distracted.
  • Fix: Practice saying the numbers out loud in order: 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, etc.
• Mistake: Mixing up which number is the group and which is the amount.
  • Why it happens: Confusing “3 groups of 4” with “3 x 4”.
  • Fix: Use objects like blocks or counters to show 3 groups of 4 items.

Parent and carer guide

• Practice together – Clap, stomp, or count with your child every day
• Use your body – Let your child use their hands, feet, or voice to show the numbers
• Be patient – Some children take longer to learn by rhythm
• Keep it fun – Add silly moves or sounds to make it exciting
• Don’t pressure – If they get stuck, try a different chant or move

Practice questions

1. How many groups of 4 make 12?
2. What is 5 x 4?
3. If you have 3 groups of 4, how many do you have?
4. What is 6 x 4?
5. What is 9 x 4?

1. 3 groups of 4 make 12
2. 5 x 4 = 20
3. 3 groups of 4 = 12
4. 6 x 4 = 24
5. 9 x 4 = 36

FAQ

What is the 4 times table?

The 4 times table is counting by 4s: 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32, 36, 40, 44, 48, 52, 56, 60.

Why are chants and rhythms helpful?

Chants and rhythms use your body and voice to help your brain remember numbers. When you move and say the numbers, you remember them better than just writing them down.

Can I make my own chant?

Yes! You can make up your own words, sounds, or moves. It’s fun to be creative with your 4 times table chant.

How do I know if I’ve remembered the 4 times table?

If you can say the facts from 0 x 4 to 12 x 4 quickly and with a beat, you’ve remembered it!

What if I forget a fact?

It’s okay to forget! You can count in 4s, use your fingers, or try your chant again. Practice helps you remember.