Written multiplication and division Target Board

The KS2Gems 2021 Target Boards present an engaging and versatile method for Year 6 students to practice and enhance their mathematical skills, specifically in written multiplication and division. The objectives of these exercises are twofold: firstly, to multiply multi-digit numbers up to four digits by a two-digit whole number using the formal method of long multiplication; and secondly, to divide multi-digit numbers up to four digits by a two-digit whole number using the formal written methods of short and long division, with an emphasis on interpreting remainders in a manner that is appropriate to the context of the problem.

Target Boards are designed to be a dynamic tool for reinforcing a variety of mathematical skills in concise sessions, making them an ideal resource for starting or concluding lessons, as well as for retrieval practice. These boards can be utilised with the entire class or in smaller groups. Teachers display the board, provide students with whiteboards and pens, and set various challenges. For instance, the teacher might instruct students to find pairs of numbers on the board that, when multiplied, result in a product greater than 25,000. This allows for differentiated instruction, as each group can be given distinct tasks to tackle, thereby catering to students with different levels of ability and ensuring that all learners are appropriately challenged.