New
New
Lesson 8 of 10
Identify and use square numbers to solve problems
I can identify and use square numbers to solve problems
Lesson 8 of 10
New
New
Identify and use square numbers to solve problems
I can identify and use square numbers to solve problems
These resources were made for remote use during the pandemic, not classroom teaching.
Switch to our new teaching resources now - designed by teachers and leading subject experts, and tested in classrooms.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- A square number of objects can be arranged into a square array.
- A square number can be represented as the product of two factors which are the same.
- When both factors have the same value, the product is called a square number.
Keywords
Square number - The result of multiplying a number by itself is known as a square number.
Common misconception
Pupils may not connect square numbers to their practical applications in problem-solving.
Highlight key words in the question to help children identify that they can use knowledge of square numbers to find the product.
As children will not have looked at finding the area, using an array will form a stepping stone to understanding square numbers and area. Engage students in hands-on activities where they can use items or objects to physically create the designs will further support understanding of square numbers.
Teacher tip
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2025), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Prior knowledge starter quiz
Download quiz pdf
6 Questions
Q1.This array shows the equation 4 × 4 When both factors have __________ value, the product is a square number.
This array shows the equation 4 × 4 When both factors have __________ value, the product is a square number.

an odd
an even
Q2.True or false. This is a square array.
True or false. This is a square array.

True
Q3.Match the number to be squared with the correct expression.
Match the number to be squared with the correct expression.
3 × 3
6 × 6
7 × 7
9 × 9
Q4.How do we calculate a square number?
How do we calculate a square number?
Multiply the number by 2
Mulitply by an odd number.
Multiply by an even number.
Q5.Select the square numbers.
Select the square numbers.
6
24
Q6.True or false. An odd square number is the result of multiplying an odd number by itself.
True or false. An odd square number is the result of multiplying an odd number by itself.
False
Assessment exit quiz
Download quiz pdf
6 Questions
Q1.Match the expression to the square number product.
Match the expression to the square number product.
9
16
25
36
49
Q2.Without calculating, which of the following is greater than 6²?
Without calculating, which of the following is greater than 6²?
5²
3²
Q3.Insert the correct symbol to make this correct. 4² ___ 4 × 2
Insert the correct symbol to make this correct. 4² ___ 4 × 2
<
=
Q4.Sofia and Jacob are making patterns with tiles. Sofia makes a square with 36 tiles. Which array shows the correct pattern?
Sofia and Jacob are making patterns with tiles. Sofia makes a square with 36 tiles. Which array shows the correct pattern?



Q5.Jacob has designed a square from smaller tiles. One side is 8 tiles long. How many tiles has he used? tiles
Jacob has designed a square from smaller tiles. One side is 8 tiles long. How many tiles has he used? tiles
Q6.Sofia made a square using 81 tiles. How long are the sides of the square array? tiles long.
Sofia made a square using 81 tiles. How long are the sides of the square array? tiles long.