Who will sit the times table test (MTC)?
Find out more about the MTC at www.bettertuition.co.uk.
UPDATE: If your child is currently in Year 4, s/he will sit the Multiplication Tables Check (MTC) in the three-week period between Monday 3 June and Friday 14 June..
What is the purpose of the Multiplication Tables Check (MTC)?
MTC stands for Multiplication Tables Check. This is a new test, introduced by the government to ensure that every child leaves primary school knowing times table facts up to 12 x 12. All children are expected to know times tables up to 12 x 12 by the end of Year 4. From 2020, all Year 4 children will sit the primary school Multiplication Tables Check (MTC).
When will the test be taken?
The test will be taken during the month of June. Your child’s school may not tell you when the test is scheduled, to avoid creating the stress of a big build up.
What is the format of the times table test (MTC)?
Year 4 Multiplication Tables Check
The test will be carried out on a computer or tablet in school. Your child will input his/ her own answers. Any wall charts displaying times tables will be removed from the room before the test.
The test will take no more than five minutes and children will answer 25 questions. They will have 6 seconds to answer each question. There will be a pause of three seconds after they answer, before the next question is asked.
There are 121 multiplication facts from 2 x 1 to 12 x 12. The MTC will ask questions from the full range of tables, with a particular focus on the 6, 7, 8, 9 and 12 times tables. This is because those tables are considered more challenging. No questions will be repeated.
Children with SEND will be appropriately supported during the test.
How will I find out my child’s result?
The tests will be instantly marked. However, it is not likely that children will be given their individual score. Similarly, it is unlikely that school will report scores to parents. Pupils’ individual results will be given to schools and the Department for Education (DfE) will report national results.
There is no pass mark and so your child cannot fail the MTC. However, the check will help teachers identify which children need more help to remember times tables facts.
How can I help my child prepare for the times table test (MTC)?
There are lots of ways to support your child in memorising times table facts. Repetition and regular practice are extremely important. Read our post on helping your child learn times tables.
Maths Frame have a Times Tables Test Simulator here on their website, which will give you a good idea of what to expect.
If you feel your child needs extra support with times tables or any other aspect of study, Better Tuition can help. Call Paul or Christine now on 0161 748 3912 to book your FREE assessment at our Ofsted-registered tuition centre in the heart of Urmston, Manchester. We are qualified teachers and we have helped thousands of children achieve and succeed in school.
