A multiplication¹ test in some of England's primary schools is sparking debate in both the UK and China - where the test originates.

 

英国部分小学推行的乘法表测试在中英两国引发热议，乘法表源自中国。

 

The new multiplication test, or times table check, will be trialed at England’s primary schools in March. Some 7,250 pupils in Year 4 at 290 primaries, are expected to take part in the multiplication check before it becomes mandatory² throughout the country in 2020.

 

The test, which assesses knowledge of the times tables up to 12, is believed to be more suitable than the Chinese version which goes up to 9, since the duodecimal system is widely adopted in the UK.

 

The test is extensively favored in Chinese schools, and is being gradually introduced to the UK, following the results of an experiment where British pupils who were taught math in the traditional Chinese way outperformed their peers by 10 percent. The experiment took place at Bohunt School in Hampshire in 2015.

 

Supporters have hailed the new test, saying it contributes to a grasp of fundamental math.

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