Mental Computation Strategies
Year 6 students build fluency with mental computation by applying strategies such as doubling and halving, using known facts, and applying properties of operations.
What You Need to Know
Key Concept Diagram
Doubling and halving: multiply one factor by 2 and divide the other by 2 to simplify multiplication
Using near-multiples: adjust a calculation by rounding, then compensate (e.g. × 9 = × 10 − ×1)
Splitting (partitioning) numbers into friendlier parts makes mental addition and subtraction faster
Knowing multiplication facts to 12 × 12 underpins all mental strategies for larger numbers
Key Vocabulary
Doubling and halving
A strategy that keeps the product the same while making factors easier to multiply
Compensation
Rounding a number to make a calculation easier, then adjusting the answer
Partitioning
Splitting a number into parts based on place value or convenient chunks
Fluency
The ability to carry out procedures accurately, efficiently, and flexibly
Knowledge Check
Select the correct answer for each question. Click "Check Answer" to see if you are right.
Question 1
Use doubling and halving to calculate 16 × 25.
Question 2
Use a near-multiple strategy to calculate 7 × 99.
Question 3
Calculate 340 + 285 using a mental partitioning strategy.
Key Concepts Summary
- ●Doubling and halving: multiply one factor by 2 and divide the other by 2 to simplify multiplication
- ●Using near-multiples: adjust a calculation by rounding, then compensate (e.g. × 9 = × 10 − ×1)
- ●Splitting (partitioning) numbers into friendlier parts makes mental addition and subtraction faster
- ●Knowing multiplication facts to 12 × 12 underpins all mental strategies for larger numbers