Multiplication Squares

This problem requires learners to find common factors and offers a context in which they can explain their reasoning.

You could begin by having a partially completed multiplication square (or squares) on the board, with just a few gaps, for example:

Ask the class to describe what they see. Can they fill in the spaces? Invite some children to explain how they know what goes in each empty cell and encourage use of appropriate vocabulary.

Then show them the multiplication square in the problem and give them some time to begin to work on it. It would be a good idea to have a mini-plenary after a few minutes to share insights so far - where did they start? Not all learners will necessarily have begun in the same way so it would be valuable to talk about the possibilities, focusing on good explanations of the reasoning involved.

Pupils could then work in pairs to complete the square. Is there only one solution? How do they know? In a final plenary, you could specifically introduce the language of common factors if it has not come up already.

Which products are odd? How will this help?

What are the factors of this number?

Multiples Grid would be a good challenge for some children once they have tried this problem.

Calculators might be useful.