Search - Rock 'N Learn: Multiplication Rap on DVD

I am appalled!

Jennifer Kohut | Milwaukee, WI | 02/05/2007

(1 out of 5 stars)

"The word "rap" being tied to this monstrosity is just laughable! There isn't one single rhyme on the entire DVD, I could have recorded my students pounding better beats on their desks, and there's a bad 80's song out there somewhere that wants its keyboard riffs back. I actually remember being taught by a "rap" technique in the 80's called "wrap-ups" that was 100 times more effective: it included worksheets and kinesthetic learning tools. This DVD does not include any strategy.

I wanted a new tool to help out my struggling students- I don't mind corny- but I wouldn't even think about using this because it's not even catchy. They go through each number sequentially and this is the extent of the rap: 4 x 1 is 4. 4 x 2 is 8. 4 x 3 is 12. Say that outloud to a beat and call it teaching, but there's no way that this is going to stick in a childs head.

Don't waste your money."

Not a rapper's delight

Amanda Richards | Georgetown, Guyana | 04/18/2008

(4 out of 5 stars)

"The target audience for this DVD is children eight years and older. Like its counterpart Rock 'N Learn: Multiplication Rock, it is best used as a reinforcement tool for students who are already working with multiplication tables in school.

Multiplication tables are shown sequentially from 2 x 1 to 2 x 12 and so on, up to 12 x 12, each set being repeated with a slight pause before the answer is given. This allows the child a chance to practice saying the tables. It also mentions multiplying numbers by zero and one as a part of the introduction.

Unfortunately, the "rapping" isn't very good (at least by current standards), and only takes place during the introductory and closing segments of each set of numbers. While the tables are being shown, it is in the same monotone as the tables in Multiplication Rock, and this was a bit of a disappointment. However, I must acknowledge that this DVD was made back in 2004, and I understand that an updated version is in the works, with better music and graphics.

Despite the bad rap, I've found that it's easier to get children to practice their multiplication tables when music and video are involved, so just choose whichever type of music you think would best hold your child's interest (rock or rap) and get the relevant DVD. Both are helpful in getting children to repeat and memorize tables.

Recommended for students from around seven and up, who need a little help in memorizing the multiplication tables they're learning in school. (I would however suggest waiting for the updated version to see if they can beat the rap)

Rated: 3.5 stars




Amanda Richards, April 17, 2008
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GREAT STUFF

4boys-mom | Texas | 06/29/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I think we have almost every video Rock 'N Learn makes, and they are great! If you don't have one...then get it. A must have to help your struggling child."

Uses an energetic, hip-hop theme to teach young people ages

Midwest Book Review | Oregon, WI USA | 04/18/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Multiplication Rap is an award-winning children's DVD that uses an energetic, hip-hop theme to teach young people ages eight and up about multiplication. Colorful computer-animated characters lead viewers through songs that help drill facts about multiplication through 12, as well as a new "What is Multiplication?" feature and a "Skip Counting" feature make Multiplication Rap perfect for showing at home or in the classroom. Multiplication Rap is an excellent addition to public library children's DVD collections as well! 50 minutes.
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