Definition
Arithmetic fact
An arithmetic fact is a basic true number relationship used as a building block for calculation.
What it means
Facts such as 8 + 7 = 15 and 6 × 4 = 24 become handy calculation tools. You may recall one directly or derive it from another known fact. Fluency means using facts accurately, efficiently, and flexibly, not racing for speed alone.
Remember it
Small true number relationships are reusable calculation tools.
Example
If you know the arithmetic fact 6 × 8 = 48, the related fact 48 ÷ 6 = 8 can help you divide without starting from scratch.
Watch for
A long calculation with unfamiliar numbers can be correct without usually being called an arithmetic fact.
Common mix-up
The fact is the true number relationship; a strategy is the method used to recall or derive it.
Exact meaning
An arithmetic fact is a basic true relationship involving addition, subtraction, multiplication, or division, usually within a familiar number range and used as a building block for calculation.