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

In a mathematics lesson centred around multiplication and division, pupils delve into the world of square numbers. The lesson aims to expand the students' understanding of times tables by exploring square numbers, which are defined as numbers that result from multiplying a number by itself. These numbers are unique in that they possess an odd number of factors, a concept that is explored through various activities. The notation for squaring a number is denoted by a superscript 2. For instance, the square of 2 is written as 2². Students are encouraged to discuss and visualise square numbers by arranging counters in square arrays, which helps to illustrate why these numbers are referred to as 'square' numbers.

Throughout the lesson, students engage in activities that challenge them to arrange a set number of counters into different arrays, noticing the patterns and properties of square numbers. For example, they explore whether the squares of even numbers are always even and whether the same applies to odd numbers. The lesson also includes reasoning exercises where students must justify their understanding of square numbers, such as addressing misconceptions about factors and investigating the relationship between prime numbers and square numbers. Independent work tasks further reinforce the concept, asking pupils to sort statements about square numbers into true or false categories and to explain their reasoning. The lesson concludes with a discussion on the characteristics and patterns of square numbers, including their visual representation as squares and the consistency of their properties.