What is the Greatest Common Factor?
The Greatest Common Factor (GCF) is the largest number that divides two or more numbers without leaving a remainder.
Think of it like finding the biggest cookie cutter that can cut out whole cookies from two different batches of dough. The GCF helps us simplify fractions and solve real-world problems like sharing snacks equally!
How to Find the GCF
1️⃣ List all the factors of each number
2️⃣ Identify the common factors they share
3️⃣ Choose the largest common factor - that's your GCF!
Let's Practice Together!
Example 1: Find the GCF of 12 and 18
Click the numbers to see their factors:
Factors of 12:
1
2
3
4
6
12
Factors of 18:
1
2
3
6
9
18
Common factors (click to highlight):
1
2
3
6
The greatest common factor is 6!
Example 2: Find the GCF of Two Numbers
Try it yourself! Enter two numbers below:
Parent Tips 🌟
- Make it visual: Use blocks or beads to physically group items and find common factors together.
- Real-world connection: Practice GCF when dividing snacks or sharing toys equally among friends.
- Factor race: Make a game of listing all factors of a number quickly - the fastest correct list wins!