Multiplication Tables Check (MTC)
What is the Multiplication Tables Check (MTC)?
The Multiplication Tables Check (MTC) is a key stage 2 assessment to be taken by pupils at the end of Year 4 (in June).
What is the purpose of the MTC?
The purpose is to ensure the times tables knowledge is at the expected level and used to determine whether pupils can recall their times tables fluently, which is essential for future success in mathematics.
How are pupils assessed?
The Multiplication Times Tables Check is an online test where the pupils are asked 25 questions on times tables 2 to 12. For every question, pupils have 6 seconds to answer, and in between the questions, there is a 3-second rest. Questions about the 6, 7, 8, 9, and 12 times table come up more often. The questions are generated randomly based on the rules of the MTC.
How to prepare
A good way to prepare is to start early and build a daily routine practising the times tables. With regular practise pupils will learn all the questions and gain confidence. We suggest practising 15 to 20 minutes a day for optimal results. Pupils can do this at home using, ‘Times Tables Rockstars’ (each child has a personal login) and games such as, ‘Hit the Button’ on www.topmarks.co.uk
Information for Y4 pupils to read
A good start is first is to do the MTC test sample on this page and see how you are doing and where to focus. When you like to improve your speed or focus on a few times tables, you can use the speed test, diplomas, worksheets or play games like Blocky Multiplication and My Smart Horse to practise.
The year 4 Multiplication Tables Check trial run on this page will help you become more comfortable reading and answering on a screen. The Multiplication Tables Check trial results can be downloaded and printed at the end of the test.
This is a recommended website, which offers a good practice run for the MTC: