Multiplication and Division (1) - Square Numbers (2) - Planning

Year 5 students are introduced to the concept of square numbers in a week dedicated to exploring multiplication and division. The National Curriculum objectives covered include recognising and using squared and cubed numbers, as well as understanding their notation. Students are also expected to sharpen their mental arithmetic skills by multiplying and dividing numbers using known number facts, and by applying multiplication and division by 10, 100, and 1000. Key vocabulary such as 'cube numbers', 'dimensions', 'volume', 'multiply', 'divide', and 'place value column' are introduced to support the learning process. A range of resources, including counters, worksheets, and a presentation, are used to facilitate learning, with vocabulary cards and definitions available to aid understanding.

The lesson begins with a recap of previous learning and a video to introduce square numbers, explaining their unique property of being the product of a number multiplied by itself. Students then engage in activities using arrays to visualise square numbers and explore the concept of square roots. They are tasked with arranging counters to form arrays representing different square numbers, thereby discovering patterns and the odd number of factors characteristic of square numbers. Group work and differentiated worksheets further reinforce learning, with key questions prompting students to consider the properties of square numbers and their patterns. The lesson aims to dispel common misconceptions and ensure students understand why square numbers are named as such. Differentiated tasks are provided to cater to varying levels of understanding, from working towards the expected level to achieving greater depth in the subject matter.