These are the paper tools that work best with a kid who needs to go back and fill in the basics. All you need is a printer, scissors, and something to count with: coins, dried beans or buttons.
Multiplication flash cards
Every fact from 2 × 2 to 9 × 9, once each. Cut, fold, and the answer ends up on the back.
Division flash cards
The matching division facts, so the two packs can be learned side by side.
Multiplication chart
A filled-in 10 × 10 chart, plus a blank one to fill in by counting in jumps.
Hundred chart
Numbers 1 to 100 for counting on, counting back and skip counting, plus a fill-in version.
Ten-frame mat
Two ten-frames for counters. Shows numbers to 20 and makes adding past ten visible.
Number bonds
Six blank whole-and-parts diagrams for finding the pairs that make a number.
Division sharing mat
Plates for sharing counters equally between 2, 3 and 4, with remainders left over.
How to use flash cards without tears
- No timer. Speed comes later, on its own.
- Start with about ten cards, mostly ones the learner already knows. Add two new ones at a time.
- When they miss one, just say the answer and put the card back in the stack.
- Ten minutes is plenty. Stop while it's still going well.
Plain-English explanations to go with them
- How to multiply goes with the multiplication cards and chart.
- What is division? goes with the division cards and sharing mat.
- How to subtract, with borrowing goes with the hundred chart.
- What is place value? goes with the ten-frame mat.
- How to help a kid who's far behind in math is for the grown-up doing the helping.
For teachers, tutors and program leaders
Print as many copies as you need for your class, group or families. You're welcome to hand them out, send them home, or link to this page. Please don't sell them.
