Saxon Math Grade 4, Section 3: Factors Multiples & Fraction Concepts
In this unit, your child finds factors and multiples, tells prime numbers from composite ones, and uses those skills with fractions. They make equivalent fractions and compare fractions with different denominators. It builds on the multiplying and dividing unit, and leads into adding, subtracting, and multiplying fractions and working with decimals.
By Robert “Bobby” BarnettMath teacher, parent, and founder of Bobby’s Math Club
What is my child learning in Section 3?
- Listing the factors and first several multiples of numbers to 100, and naming prime numbers like 2, 3, 5, 7, and 11. Learn more about finding factors and multiples up to 100: Finding factors and multiples up to 100 · Learn more about spotting prime numbers
- Multiplying a fraction by a fraction equal to 1, like 2/2 or 3/3, to make equivalent fractions. Learn more: Why fractions like 3/4 and 6/8 are equal
- Comparing fractions with different denominators by renaming them, and with benchmarks like 1/2. Learn more: Comparing fractions like 2/3 and 5/6
Sample questions to try together
These are real questions from our practice. Tap the speaker to hear one read aloud, or the light bulb for a hint, and talk about the answer together.
Question 1 of 3
4 × 9 = 36. Which sentence is true?
- 4 is a multiple of 36.
- 36 is a multiple of 4, but not of 9.
- 36 is a multiple of both 4 and 9.
How you can help
- Count multiples on a walk: clap on every 3rd step and stomp on every 4th, and ask your child when they will do both at once.
- Use measuring cups while making a snack. Ask how many 1/4 cups fill a 1/2 cup, then how many 1/8 cups, and connect it to 1/2 = 2/4 = 4/8.
- Ask a snack-time sharing question: can 15 strawberries be shared equally by 2? By 3? By 5? Connect each yes to a factor of 15.
Where kids can get stuck
- Calling 25 prime because it's odd, though 25 = 5 × 5.
- Multiplying only the numerator, so 1/2 is renamed 2/2 instead of 2/4.
- Thinking 1/5 is greater than 1/3 because 5 is greater than 3.
Practice makes perfect
Bobby's Math Club has practice problems that adapt to your child’s level, each with a detailed explanation and an easy-to-follow video, so your child can build confidence in these skills one step at a time.
Words your child will hear
- factor
- A number that multiplies with another number to make a given number, like 4 in 4 × 6 = 24.
- multiple
- The product of a number and a whole number, like 6, 12, and 18 for the number 6.
- prime number
- A number greater than 1 with exactly two factors, 1 and itself, like 7.
- composite number
- A number greater than 1 with more than two factors, like 12.
- equivalent fractions
- Fractions that name the same amount, like 3/4 and 6/8.
- numerator
- The top number of a fraction, telling how many equal parts are counted.
- denominator
- The bottom number of a fraction, telling how many equal parts make one whole.
- benchmark fraction
- A familiar fraction, like 1/2 or 1, used to compare other fractions.
Ready to build your child’s confidence with factors and fractions?
In Bobby's Math Club, your child practices these skills at just the right level, with a hint when they need one, a clear explanation after every question, and kid-friendly videos. Unlimited practice is free.
Join the club
Written by Robert “Bobby” Barnett
Bobby is an award-winning math teacher, the author of Meet Every Learner’s Needs, and the father of two elementary-school math learners. He uses Bobby’s Math Club with his own kids a few times every week. Learn more or contact Bobby.
Which math standards does Saxon Math Grade 4 Section 3 cover?
Saxon Math Grade 4 Section 3 covers these math standards. Each one links to what it means, sample questions, and teaching strategies.
For teachers: Unit names and order vary between editions and districts, so your school’s own materials have the exact sequence. Learn how Bobby's Math Club can help your students grow.