In this activity, the pupils can prepare the tracks on mats, floor, or, on the surface of a desk or chair. The purpose of this exercise is to count multiplications as fast as possible and say the products out loud. The group can take time on each round. The activity also teaches honesty, cooperation, and mental calculation. Concentrating on your own turn is important, along with supporting others. If other pupil performs poorly, it should be dealt with in a constructive way. Multiplication cards can be printed from the Material Pocket.

Variation ideas

• The racing track can also be built in the gym or lobby. Pupils attach the equations to cones. They also plan the track. The track can be built so that the cones are close, so it takes skill to get through the whole course. Pupils can go through the course with a board or a chair that has wheels.
• Outside, the pupils can go through the track on a skateboard or a bicycle. They can also go through the track with a partner using a wheelbarrow or a cart if the school owns any. If these methods are used, the speed should be reasonable so there won’t be any accidents.

Assessment

Observe the pupils. Intervene if you notice inappropriate behavior. Support the pupils during the activity. After the exercise, ask the pupils if they improved their times on the second round. They think about different ways on how they could improve their times even further.