Ann
Stephenson, Charles R. Hadley Elementary, Miami, FL
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| Grade Level |
3rd - 5th |
| Subject |
Mathematics |
| Background |
By making factor trees on the
computer, children can develop a better concept of multiplication
and its processes. They will understand that a number that divides
another number evenly, without a remainder, is called a factor of
that number. For example, 4 is a factor of 20, because 4 divides
evenly into 20 without leaving a remainder. All the factors of 20
are: 1,2,4,5,10,20. All the factors of 24 are: 1,2,3,4,6,8,12,24.
Notice that 20 has 1 and 20 as factors and that 24 has 1 and 24 as
factors. Every number always has a least 1 and itself as factors.
Ask the students to explain this rule.
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| Objectives |
To learn to factor numbers
To learn concepts of numbers |
| Materials |
Computers, paper, Microsoft
Works or Word, online capability, Factor Tree Work Sheet |
| Procedure |
1. Students will open Paint in Microsoft Works
or Word.
2. In the upper center of the page place a number, such as 24.
3. Draw a line to the left of 24 and a line to the right of it.
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24 |
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/ |
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\ |
4 |
x |
6 |
/ |
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\ |
2 x 2 |
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2 x 3 |
4. On the next line, factor 24, such as 4 and 6.
5. Continue until it is factored out.
6. Numbers can be different sizes as they are factored down.
7. Lines can be different sizes and different colors to help
visually with comprehension.
8. When students are finished they may draw a frame around their
tree and print it.
9. Students can visit the following site to learn more about
factor trees:
Factor Tree
Math Advantage
10. Students can ask about creating factor trees at Dr.
Math |
| Tips |
The numbers on each level of
the factor tree branches can be in different colors to assist in
comprehension. |
| Evaluation |
Students will locate
calculator on their computer (look for it in Accessories on a PC
or under the Apple icon on a Mac) and use it to factor the numbers
on their Factor Tree Work Sheet, ask them to start from the bottom
of the tree, multiplying up until they arrive at the top with the
correct answer. Check answers with classmates.
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