Multiples and LCM Made Easy with Millipedes

To solve this problem, I began using a playful visual association that students absolutely love. I teach them to picture multiple millipedes as a reminder that multiples continue to grow and stretch forward, much like a millipede’s long body. This simple alliteration and imagery give students a concrete visual to hold onto, making the process of finding multiples far more intuitive and memorable.

Why Students Struggle with Multiples and LCM

For many learners, the concept of multiples feels abstract, and the steps for finding the least common multiple are easy to mix up. Common challenges include:

• Forgetting the sequence of multiples
• Mixing up multiples with factors
• Losing track of numbers while comparing two lists
• Lacking a visual strategy for identifying the least common multiple

When students are not given a visual, concrete, or multisensory approach, the terms become something to memorize rather than understand. This is especially true for students with ADHD, dyscalculia, executive functioning weaknesses, or working memory challenges. A memorable teaching tool can make all the difference in helping the learning stick.

Dr. Warren now offers a comprehensive, math resource called Memorable Math - Great for struggling math students, you can learn more here.

Introducing Multiples and LCM Made Easy with Millipedes

To make learning these concepts easier, I created a resource called Multiples and LCM Made Easy, available as both a document and a PowerPoint lesson. This teaching tool uses visual imagery, alliteration, and creative memory strategies to help students understand and recall the process long after the lesson is over.

This engaging resource includes:

• A PowerPoint lesson that introduces multiples and LCM with millipede imagery
• A comprehensive teaching guide with embedded memory strategies
• Clear, step-by-step instructions for finding multiples and the least common multiple
• Practice problems that reinforce learning in a structured and supportive way
• A coloring activity to strengthen visual memory
• An interactive game that allows students to play while they learn and apply the concepts

By combining visual learning, repetition, and play, this approach helps students make lasting connections. Instead of reteaching the concept throughout the year, teachers find that students retain the process and can apply it independently.

Why This Approach Works

This method brings learning to life. Students are more likely to remember a silly image, a colorful visual, or a catchy phrase than a dry definition. When they can see the millipede stretching forward, they understand that multiples continue to grow. When they compare two millipedes to find where they match, the concept of LCM clicks.

This is especially helpful for:

• Elementary and middle school learners
• Students who benefit from multisensory instruction
• Learners with ADHD, dyslexia, dyscalculia, or executive functioning challenges
• Math intervention and small group instruction
• Homeschool learning

By transforming an abstract concept into something concrete, visual, and enjoyable, students gain the confidence to approach multiple and LCM problems with success.

Click Here to learn more.

Cheers, Dr. Erica Warren

Dr. Erica Warren is the author, illustrator, and publisher of multisensory educational materials at Good Sensory Learning. She is also the director of Learning to Learn and Learning Specialist Courses.

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