5 lined up

Being able to tell consecutive multiples is also a useful skill. We can use this blackjack like game to see how to learn about this type of multiplication

We often use consecutive multiples to work out a nearby multiple that's more difficult. For example we often use 10 x 7 say to work out 9 x 7 (10 x 7 = 70 and then subtract 7 to get 9 x 7 = 63)

What you need to play

• 1 pack of cards

Set up

Deal out all the cards so that each player gets 7. Players place their cards on the table in front of them, colour side up. Place one card colour side up in the middle and the rest of the pack colour side up to the side.

How to Play

Your goal in this game is to get rid of your cards. You can do this by playing a card (or multiple cards) if they are consecutive multiples

Each turn is simple, the player tries to lay a card into the play area. It has to extend a line by putting a consecutive multiple next to it. A consecutive multiple is the previous or next number in a times table. If we have 20, a consecutive multiple might be 10 (in the 10 times table) or 22 in the 2 times table.

There are a number of extra rules that are important to know to do with when to pick up (from the pick up pile)

1. If you can't play a card on your turn, pick up 1 card.
2. Sometimes people bluff by putting down a number that is not a consecutive multiple. Other players are welcome to challenge any play but if they get it wrong, they might need to pick up 2 themselves. If a challenge is made, check the numbers on the played cards.
3. If the player before you makes a line of 5 cards (or more), pick up 3 cards.

The winner is simply the first person to get rid of all their cards.