How to use the Step Counting PowerPoints with your class

With the step counting PowerPoints it is easy to teach your class to step count confidently.

This approach builds fluency, confidence and improves engagement and is the first step in the Five Steps programme.

Step 1: Introduce the PowerPoint

Open Slide 1. Discuss with the class what they can see, drawing attention to the structure of the times table if you wish. You may prefer to save this discussion until after step counting has been introduced; both approaches work well. Explain that the whole class is going to learn to step count fluently in the target times table.

Step 2: Count together

Count out loud with your class, pointing to the cards as you say the products together. Pause briefly after the product on each of the two cards pulled down out of the number line (these are always the products for 5x and 10x). Pausing gives the number line shape, helps students absorb what they are seeing and hearing and maximises participation.

Image 1: Counting, pointing and pausing for the 7x table.

Step 3: Identify the missing product

Open Slide 2. One card has been turned over. Discuss with your class what the missing product is. Count again, pointing to each card in turn as you say the numbers. Make sure the learners say all the numbers, even the one they now can’t see! Continue to pause briefly after saying the products for 5x and 10x.

Step 4: Build fluency

Click onto the next slide and repeat the process above until your class can confidently step count, even when all cards are face down! (This may take more than one session, but that’s fine!)

Step 5: Optional extension

When the class are confident counting forwards, try counting backwards too! This will help embed the number sequence. But this is an optional extra and may not suit all classes.

What’s Next?

You have now completed Step 1 of the Five Steps to Learning a Times Table. It’s time to consolidate fluency in step counting with some fun clapping exercises! (Step 2). You will then be ready to embark on learning the multiplication facts (Step 3). For that you will use the PowerPoint again. Find guidance on all Five Steps on our Five Steps page.