Explain what a factor is and use arrays and multiplication and division facts to find them

I can explain what a factor is and find factors using arrays and known multiplication and division facts.

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Explain what a factor is and use arrays and multiplication and division facts to find them

I can explain what a factor is and find factors using arrays and known multiplication and division facts.

Download all

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Key learning points

A factor is a whole number which can be multiplied by another whole number to equal a given number or product.

Keywords

Row - Objects lying side by side in a horizontal line is known as a row.
Column - A column is an arrangement of objects one above the other in a vertical line.
Array - An array is when items are arranged in rows and/or columns.
Factor - Factors are whole numbers which exactly divide another whole number.
Product - The product is the result of two numbers (factors) multiplied together.

Common misconception

Pupils try to represent numbers as an array with an unequal amount in rows and columns.

Ensure pupils are given time to explore representing numbers as arrays and identifying where the numbers in a multiplication equation come from within their array.

Use square tiles with pupils representing numbers as arrays as this will help pupils to make complete rectangles which will help connect their understanding of factorising algebraic equations in their later education.

Teacher tip

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