Overview

This 40-minute interactive lesson for a mixed-ability class of 24 first year students (12-13 years old) follows the Irish Curriculum framework (Junior Cycle Mathematics, Year 1) focusing on Number topics—specifically factors, multiples, and adding/subtracting integers on number lines. Using games, hands-on activities, and digital media, the lesson is designed to deepen conceptual understanding through collaborative, practical learning supporting the IE curriculum key skills and learning outcomes.

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Curriculum Links

• Strand: Number

• Strand Unit: Whole Numbers and Integers

• Learning Outcomes:

  • Identify and list factors and multiples of numbers, including prime numbers
  • Perform addition and subtraction of integers using number lines
  • Develop problem-solving and reasoning skills through real contexts

• Junior Cycle Specification References:

  • N1 Number Sense & N3 Operations
  • Key skills: Managing Information & Thinking, Communicating
  • Junior Cycle mathematics learning statements: Solve problems using number operations; Explore properties of whole numbers

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Learning Objectives

By the end of the lesson, students will:

1. Recognise and identify factors and multiples of given numbers.
2. Use number lines confidently to add and subtract positive and negative integers.
3. Apply knowledge through strategic games and digital tools reinforcing collaborative and independent learning.
4. Demonstrate reasoning about factors, multiples, and integer operations in discussion.

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Success Criteria

• I can list all factors of a number correctly.
• I can explain what a multiple is and find multiples of numbers.
• I can add and subtract integers using a number line accurately.
• I can explain my thinking to others during games and activities.

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Resources Needed

• Whiteboard and markers
• Large printed number lines (1 per 4 students)
• Cards with numbers (for factors/multiples game)
• Tablets or laptops with integer addition/subtraction interactive game (offline or web-based maths app)
• Dice
• Counters or markers
• Dyslexia-friendly printed instructions using clear fonts (e.g., OpenDyslexic), simple wording, and colour coding

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Lesson Structure

1. Starter – Quick Fire Factor/Multi Quiz (6 mins)

• Activity: Quick group quiz on factors and multiples using number cards. In pairs, students pull a number card and list factors aloud. Next, they identify three multiples of the number.
• Differentiation: Pairs supported with prompt cards showing definitions. Advanced pairs challenged with prime numbers or larger numbers.
• Success check: Teacher listens to answers and gives instant feedback.

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2. Main Activity Part 1 – “Factor/Foe” Game (10 mins)

• Instructions:
  • Divide class into groups of 4.
  • Each group receives a set of number cards (1-36).
  • Students take turns drawing a “target number” card. Others quickly find a factor of that number and place that card down. First correct factor wins the round. Multiple rounds played.
• Adaptations:
  • For dyslexic learners, cards colour-coded and with tactile symbols for multiples/factors.
  • EAL or struggling learners paired with stronger peers for guided support.
• Learning Outcome: Reinforces recognition of factors in an engaging setting.

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3. Main Activity Part 2 – Integer Number Line Challenge (15 mins)

• Setup: Groups of 4 with printed number lines (-20 to +20).
• Task: Teacher calls out addition or subtraction problems involving positive and negative integers (e.g., -7 + 5, 3 - 8). Groups use counters to move along the number line to find the answer together.
• Digital extension: Students rotate with tablets running an interactive integer number line game where they “jump” on the number line to add or subtract integers.
• Class competition: Points awarded for correct answers and explanation of reasoning.
• Differentiation: Easier problems with smaller numbers for learners who struggle, more complex negative/positive integer operations for advanced learners.
• Success criteria: Students can physically demonstrate integer addition/subtraction and explain their moves.

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4. Plenary – Reflect & Explain (7 mins)

• Think-pair-share: Students state one new fact learnt about factors/multiples and one integer addition/subtraction tip.
• Teacher invites volunteers to explain using number line examples on board.
• Use thumbs up/down for confidence check.
• Collect informal feedback to assess understanding and inform next lesson.

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Extension Activities for Advanced Learners

• Challenge with prime factorisation puzzles or least common multiple problems using larger numbers.
• Create their own integer addition/subtraction story problems and solve on number lines.
• Use digital tools to explore integer multiplication/division on number lines as enrichment.

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Differentiation Strategies

• Pairing students strategically for peer support.
• Use of visual, tactile, and digital supports for multiple learning styles.
• Chunk tasks into smaller steps with clear, dyslexia-friendly instructions.
• Provide chance for oral responses and demonstrations for those with writing difficulties.
• Allow extra processing time and scaffolding where needed.

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Teacher Notes

• Keep the pace brisk to maintain engagement but pause frequently to check understanding.
• Emphasise language around positive/negative, factors/multiples clearly.
• Celebrate teamwork and encourage students to explain their thinking aloud.
• Use questioning to challenge misconceptions in real time.
• Ensure tablet rotations are smooth to avoid downtime.

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This plan fosters active participation, conceptual understanding, and collaborative problem-solving, aligned strongly with the Irish Junior Cycle Mathematics curriculum, while incorporating practical and technological elements to inspire first-year students.