Times Table Methods
Times table story anchors
Use characters, places and silly images to remember stubborn facts.
Quick answer
Times table story anchors help you remember multiplication facts by creating silly, memorable stories using characters, places, and actions.Learning outcome
By the end of this page, you will be able to use story anchors to remember tricky multiplication facts from 0 to 12 times any number. Success signs:- You can make up a silly story for a multiplication fact
- You can explain why your story helps you remember
- You can use stories to solve multiplication problems
- You can work with a friend to create new story anchors
Why this matters
Learning your times tables helps you solve bigger maths problems quickly. Story anchors make it easier to remember those tricky facts that don't come naturally. Whether you're sharing pizza, counting toys, or planning a party, multiplication helps you work out how many things you need or have. Story anchors help you remember these facts without having to memorise them by rote.How it works
To use times table story anchors:- Choose a multiplication fact (like 7 × 6)
- Think of a character (like a dancing elephant)
- Think of a place (like a circus tent)
- Think of an action (like jumping 7 times)
- Combine them into a silly story (like "The elephant jumps 7 times in the circus tent, 6 times")
- Repeat the story to yourself until you remember
Examples you can see
Let's look at the 7 times table using story anchors:| Multiplication | Story Anchor |
|---|---|
| 0 × 7 | No elephants jumping in the circus tent |
| 1 × 7 | One elephant jumps 7 times |
| 2 × 7 | Two elephants jump 7 times each |
| 3 × 7 | Three elephants jump 7 times each |
| 4 × 7 | Four elephants jump 7 times each |
| 5 × 7 | Five elephants jump 7 times each |
| 6 × 7 | Six elephants jump 7 times each |
| 7 × 7 | Seven elephants jump 7 times each |
| 8 × 7 | Eight elephants jump 7 times each |
| 9 × 7 | Nine elephants jump 7 times each |
| 10 × 7 | Ten elephants jump 7 times each |
| 11 × 7 | Eleven elephants jump 7 times each |
| 12 × 7 | Twelve elephants jump 7 times each |
Try it as a mini adventure
Imagine you are a maths detective who needs to solve a mystery. The villain has hidden the multiplication facts in a magical garden. To find them, you must create a story for each fact. Step 1: Choose the fact 3 × 4. Step 2: Think of a character: A silly monkey. Step 3: Think of a place: A fruit tree. Step 4: Think of an action: Climbing up and down. Step 5: Make your story: "The monkey climbs up and down the fruit tree 3 times, 4 times each climb." Step 6: Repeat the story 3 times to yourself. Step 7: Try to say the answer without looking at your notes. Step 8: Now try 5 × 6 with your own story. Step 9: Share your stories with a friend or family member.Common mistakes
- Mistake: Making a story that's too complicated or doesn't make sense.
Why it happens: When you try to be too clever or forget to keep it simple.
Fix: Keep your stories short and silly. Use simple actions and familiar objects. - Mistake: Forgetting to use the correct multiplication numbers in the story.
Why it happens: When you get confused about which number is the group size and which is the number of groups.
Fix: Write down the multiplication fact first, then use the numbers in your story. - Mistake: Not practicing enough with the story.
Why it happens: When you think one story is enough.
Fix: Repeat your story 3-5 times and try to recall it without looking. - Mistake: Using the same character for every story.
Why it happens: When you don't want to think of new ideas.
Fix: Try different characters like animals, toys, food, or even yourself.
Parent and carer guide
Parents and carers can help children with story anchors in just 5-10 minutes:- Ask your child to make up a story for a multiplication fact
- Listen to their story and help them stay focused on the numbers
- Ask questions like "What did the character do?" and "How many times did they do it?"
- Help them create a silly or funny story, not a serious one
- Encourage them to practice the story aloud several times
- Try making stories together, taking turns to create one part
- Don't worry if the story isn't perfect – silly stories work best!
- Keep it fun and light – story anchors should be enjoyable, not stressful
Practice questions
- What is 4 × 5? Make up a story to remember it.
Answer: A silly cat runs 4 times, 5 times each run. - What is 8 × 3? Make up a story to remember it.
Answer: Eight bunnies hop 3 times each. - What is 6 × 9? Make up a story to remember it.
Answer: Six dancing pandas jump 9 times each. - What is 12 × 2? Make up a story to remember it.
Answer: Twelve children clap 2 times each. - What is 11 × 4? Make up a story to remember it.
Answer: Eleven dancing robots move 4 times each.
FAQ
What is a times table story anchor?
A times table story anchor is a silly, memorable story that helps you remember multiplication facts by connecting numbers to characters, places, and actions.
Can I use story anchors for all times tables?
Yes! Story anchors work for any times table from 0 to 12. They help with the tricky facts that are hard to remember.
How many times should I repeat my story?
Repeat your story at least 3 times. The more you practice, the easier it becomes to remember.
Are story anchors only for children?
No! Story anchors are helpful for everyone who wants to learn multiplication facts more easily, including adults.
What if I can't think of a story?
Start with simple characters like animals or toys. Try to make your story silly or funny. If you're stuck, try a different number or ask a friend for help.