C Curriculum Explorer
Mathematics·Algebra·procedural

Factorising Expressions

Factorise algebraic expressions by taking out common factors — identify the highest common factor of all terms and write the expression as a product, e.g., 6x + 9 = 3(2x + 3)

Suggested ages 12–13

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Evidence of understanding

  • Identify the highest common factor of all terms in an expression
  • Write the factorised form as a product of the HCF and a bracket
  • Check factorisation by expanding the brackets back out

Assessment prompt

Can Factorising Expressions look at an expression like "6x + 9" and rewrite it with the common factor taken out — as "3(2x + 3)"?

Standards alignment

7.EE.1US · ccss-math

Apply properties of operations to linear expressions

Common Core State Standards for Mathematics · 7

KS3.Maths.Alg.4cGB · uk-nc-2013

Simplify Expressions: Taking Out Common Factors

The national curriculum in England: Key stages 1 and 2 framework document · Key Stage 3