Explain how the distributive law applies to multiplication expressions with a common factor
I can explain how the distributive law can help to solve multiplication problems more efficiently, and write equations that show this.
Explain how the distributive law applies to multiplication expressions with a common factor
I can explain how the distributive law can help to solve multiplication problems more efficiently, and write equations that show this.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- 2 groups of ___ plus 3 groups of ___ is equal to 5 groups of ___
- Where there is a common factor within expressions, the uncommon factors can be added or subtracted before multiplying.
- The distributive law can be very useful for solving problems where there is a common factor.
- You can use brackets in an equation to show that you have used the distributive law.
Keywords
Distributive law - The distributive law says that multiplying a number by a group of numbers added together is the same as doing each multiplication separately.
Common - Common can mean that something is the same as something else. For example, when multiplication expressions each have one factor that is the same, they are said be common factors.
Common misconception
Children may add or subtract the common factors together rather than the uncommon factors.
Use unitising counters or other physical resources to represent each problem and manipulate these to demonstrate the distributive law before showing children the equation that represents it.
To help you plan your year 6 maths lesson on: Explain how the distributive law applies to multiplication expressions with a common factor, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 6 maths lesson on: Explain how the distributive law applies to multiplication expressions with a common factor, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
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The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
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Explore more key stage 2 maths lessons from the Order of operations unit, dive into the full secondary maths curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
Licence
Lesson video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
2 + 30 = 32
8 × 3 = 24
4 × 5 = 20
Exit quiz
6 Questions
23 × 12
9 x 12
20 x 15
17 x 14
