Multiplication Tables Check
Monday 2nd June- Friday 13th June 2025
What is the Multiplcation Table Check?
The Multiplication Table Check is an online times tables test for all Year 4 children in England. The multiplication check is designed to identify if children in Year 4 can recall their times tables fluently. It has been created to try and help schools identify which children may need further support with their times tables.
There is no pass rate for the check and children will not be expected to repeat the check.
Why do the children take the check?
The Government made the check compulsory in 2022. They say: The purpose of the MTC is to determine whether pupils can recall their times tables fluently, which is essential for future success in mathematics. It will help schools to identify pupils who have not yet mastered their times tables, so that additional support can be provided.
But why are times tables so important? Having rapid recall of times tables makes other areas of maths much easier. Fractions is the most obvious area where learning times tables well is essential. However, every multiplication, division, long multiplication method and short division and long division method require speed and instant recall of times tables while at primary school.
At secondary school the needs become even greater. Furthermore, having the tables secure frees up their working memory for newer, more challenging tasks at hand. So learning them now, in year 4, sets children up for a more successful maths career later in their school life.
How is the check carried out?
There is a two week window in June where the children will complete their check. The dates for these are at the top of this page.
The check is online and children will have the opportunity to complete it on an iPad within their classroom and with their own teacher. There are 25 multiplication questions, there are no division questions. The children have 6 seconds to complete each question and a timer is shown. There is a 3 second pause between each question. At the beginning of the check there are 3 practice questions for the children to answer to help them prepare for the check. The children will not be able to see their score at the end of the check; these are downloadable by the school at the end of the check window.
The children will each receive a random selection of 25 questions and they answer by using the keypad on the iPad. Some times tables are more likely to be asked, for example the 6, 7, 8, 9 and 12 times tables. (Reversal questions will not appear in the same check i.e. 8 x 7 and 7 x 8.)
How are we preparing the children?
As a school we use Times Table Rockstars (TTRS), which is an app that can be downloaded on any device and accessed from home as well. The children use this to practise their times tables across the school and in Year 4, they use the Soundcheck function to practice the Multiplication Check.
As well, as TTRS, the children have opportunities to learn and practice their times table in class and also use other websites and resources to support this.
It is also important that the children continue to practice and learn their times tables at home.
Chanting and singing the times tables is a great way of doing this. Other resources that may help include:
https://www.topmarks.co.uk/maths-games/hit-the-button
https://mathsframe.co.uk/en/resources/resource/477/Multiplication-Tables-Check