An array shows multiplication tables using objects. This is an easier approach for younger elementary students to visualize, rather than memorize, multiplication tables. For example: 3 x 4 = 12. To make an array to show this, you could use pennies to make three rows of four. This method can also be used to find the factors of a number in an easier way. Arrange arrays using coins, blocks or drawing dots on a piece of paper.
Find factors of 12 using the pennies to make different arrays.
Lay down the pennies, 12 at time only, to form different and even arrays. The arrays must be made evenly. To start, lay down 12 pennies in a straight line. This line represents one row of 12 columns, or 12 x 1 = 12; therefore, 12 and one are considered factors of 12.
Lay down a second set of pennies to form a different and even square or rectangle. Form two rows of six columns each (or six rows of two columns). This represents 2 x 6 = 12; therefore, two and six are factors of 12.
Lay down the last set of pennies to form an even square or rectangle. Form three rows of four columns (or four rows of three columns). This represents 3 x 4 = 12; therefore, three and four are factors of 12.
Combine all of your arrays to compile all of the factors of 12: one, 12, two, six, three and four. Put these numbers in numerical order and you're finished:
One, two, three, four, six and 12 are all factors of the number 12.
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About the Author
Andrea Griffith has been writing professionally since 2005. Her work has been published by the "Western Herald," Detroit WDIV, USAToday and other print, broadcast and online publications. Although she writes about a wide range of topics, her areas of expertise include fashion, beauty, technology and education. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in journalism and English from Western Michigan University.
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pennies image by studio vision1 from Fotolia.com