Use hands-on math lessons to introduce key math concepts so kids really understand. Try this math lesson that uses blocks as a way to explain what factors are to children.
Easy lesson to explain factors
In this activity, from our Fun Math curriculum, we’ll explore different ways we can make a number using multiplication.
For example, what different pairs of numbers can we multiply together to make 20?
These numbers are called the factors of 20.
Which numbers are they?
Magic Fun Math lessons!
Fun Math is an easy to teach, highly effective math curriculum based on play and hands-on learning.
All the lessons are designed to be fun and memorable, so children enjoy their lessons and feel confident.
The lessons are easy for teachers and parents to use, in class or at home.
These are the magic lessons where children really see, understand, and can apply math concepts. They are especially suited to children who don’t like math, lack confidence, don’t understand math the way they are currently being taught, or just want to play.
SEE MORE AND TRANSFORM YOUR MATH TEACHING HERE.
In this activity, your children can:
:: be introduced to the concept of factors
:: use hands-on manipulatives to visualise factors
:: develop fine motor skills
Materials needed
:: twenty blocks (or other small items) per child / pair of children
Introducing factors
Give each child or pair of children 20 blocks. We’re starting off with one group of 20.
Write down 1 x 20.
Have them split the blocks into two equal groups. Share them out and they’ll have two groups of 10.
Write down 2 x 10.
Split the blocks into four equal groups. Share them out and they’ll have four groups of 5.
Write down 4 x 5.
Take a look at the numbers you have written down. 1, 2, 4, 5, 10 and 20 are all the factors of 20.
Extend the understanding of factors
Have your children repeat the activity using other numbers so they become familiar with the concept of factors and working out what the factors of a number are.
Stick with even numbers (12 and 8) to begin with.
Then introduce odd numbers where you cannot begin by splitting the blocks in half. How would you split up 9 blocks into groups?
Explain that factors have to be whole numbers (no halves or other fractions).
As you can’t divide 9 by two, what grouping could you share it out equally into?
Transform your teaching with Fun Math
The Fun Math series gives you a math curriculum that is easy to teach and highly effective.
Children love these lessons because they are engaging and fun.
You’ll have a clear set of ready-made math lessons and activities that are simple to lead using our step-by-step lesson guides, and which children really understand.
Be the best math teacher and boost your children’s confidence and skills with Fun Math.
See more and transform your teaching here.
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