Explain what each factor represents in a multiplication equation
I can explain what each factor represents in a multiplication equation.
Explain what each factor represents in a multiplication equation
I can explain what each factor represents in a multiplication equation.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Factors can either represent the number of groups or the size of each group.
- Factors are commutative so they can swap positions within a multiplication equation and the product remains the same.
- When looking at multiplication expressions, the factors can be interpreted in two different ways to give two images.
Common misconception
Pupils may struggle to identify whether a factor is representing the group size or the number of groups, particularly when their position in the equation is swapped to show commutativity.
Give children concrete examples to look at, such as jars of marbles, boxes of erasers or pots of pencils and write corresponding multiplication equations, identifying the factor that represents group size and the one that represents number of groups.
Keywords
Factor - A factor is a whole number which divides exactly into another whole number.
Product - A product is the result of two or more numbers being multiplied.
Commutative - In addition and multiplication, numbers may be added or multiplied together in any order. This is called commutativity.
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
number of groups
group size
Exit quiz
6 Questions
2 × 3
4 × 3
10 × 2
15 × 13