7th Grade · Expressions & Equations
Greatest Common Factor
7.EE.A.1
Definition
The largest factor shared by two or more numbers or terms. Used to simplify fractions and factor algebraic expressions.
Teach it
Where it is taught, with guided notes, practice, homework, an exit ticket and an interactive Teacher Deck.
Examples
- GCF of 12 and 18 is 6 (common factors: 1, 2, 3, 6).
- GCF of 4x and 6x2 is 2x, so 4x + 6x2 = 2x(2 + 3x).
Key rule
GCF is used to factor expressions — pull it out.
Memory hook
The biggest number that divides them all.