Prime factorization is the process of determining which prime numbers can be multiplied to form the original number. This usually starts by listing all the primes of the value and then evaluate each to see which can be multiplied to get that original value. Students often have difficulty when we are focused on prime numbers, but there are many possibilities and the more repetition they get with this skill, the better they will be off. Prime integers are whole numbers greater than one which you cannot make any other way than by multiplying other whole numbers together. Numbers that do not fit those criterion are referred to as Composite Numbers. That little bit of background leads us to Prime Factorization which is the task of determining prime numbers that when multiplied makes the original number you were given.

The lessons that are provided will explain how to find the prime factor of a number. The following activity sheets will give your students practice in calculating prime factors, those factors which are not divisible by any other number than themselves. Answers may include variables, expressions, and exponents.