Using this short division (or ladder) method provides a clear step by step approach to prime factorisation. This method pays off in the long run as finding the LCM or HCF of two or even three composite numbers becomes easier and more intuitive!
The worksheet begins with an example of the method which is followed by a fill the gaps task, aiming to build learners confidence.
In section B, students will find the prime factor decomposition of six numbers. Here the ‘ladders’ are pre drawn to further support your students.
Next up, learners will explain what’s wrong with three different product of prime factors answers.
There are nine further numbers to decompose in section D. There is no scaffolding in place here.
Lastly students are introduced to using the methods with two numbers in section E. This is used to find the LCM and HCF of the pairs of numbers.
