Factors and Multiples word search, scramble and crossword puzzle

Factors and Multiples word search, scramble and crossword puzzle

I made this factors and multiples puzzle set for my 4th graders during our math unit. The kids kept mixing up which was which, saying "factors are numbers you multiply" and "multiples are numbers you count by" but still getting confused. So I put together a word search, a word scramble, and a crossword using words like factor, multiple, multiply, divide, product, factor pair, factor tree, common factor, common multiple, prime factor, least common multiple (LCM), greatest common factor (GCF), times table, and array. Nothing fancy — just puzzles to help the difference finally stick.

The PDF is four pages. Three puzzles plus one answer key page. The word search works well for quiet time after recess. The scramble gets them talking because they argue about whether 6 is a factor or multiple of 12. The crossword I use for partners. I added a couple simple multiplication and division arrow drawings but nothing too busy.

Works for 4th through 5th grade. Print and go. Sometimes I have early finishers list all the factors of 12 on the back. The kids actually ask for these now.