Concept

To factor a number means to break it up into smaller numbers (factors) that can be multiplied together to get the original number.

Rule

To find the factors of a given number, think about the numbers that, when multiplied together, make the original number. 

Example

Select the numbers that are factors of 24.

Solution

To find the factors of 24, think about the numbers that, when multiplied together, make 24.

1 is a factor of 24 because 1 x 24 = 24

2 is a factor of 24 because 2 x 12 = 24

3 is a factor of 24 because 3 x 8 = 24

4 is a factor of 24 because 4 x 6 = 24

6 is a factor of 24 because 6 x 4 = 24

8 is a factor of 24 because 8 x 3 = 24

12 is a factor of 24 because 12 x 2 = 14

24 is a factor of 24 because 24 x 1 = 24

The factors of 24 from the options are: 2, 3, 6, and 12.

Pre-requisite Skills

Multiplication facts (Grade 3 units 4 & 5)