- Definition
A perfect square is a number you get when you multiply a whole number by itself, like how 9 is a perfect square because it's 3 multiplied by 3.
The number 25 is a perfect square because it is the product of 5 × 5.
How to teach this in 30 seconds
Try this analogy: A perfect square is like using tiles to build a perfect square patio — the number of tiles you need is a perfect square.
Ask your child: Can you arrange 16 pennies into a perfect square shape?
Common mix-up: Kids may think any number made by multiplying two numbers is a perfect square (like 12 from 3 x 4). A perfect square must come from multiplying a whole number by itself.
Examples
- Arranging 36 blocks into a 6 by 6 square shows that 36 is a perfect square.
- Since 8 × 8 = 64, the number 64 is a perfect square.
perfect square is a term used in Ontario’s Kindergarten to Grade 8 curriculum.
Where this shows up
The descriptions on this page are SmartStudy’s own original, plain-language writing — not the Ministry’s wording. They are aligned to the Ontario Curriculum, © King’s Printer for Ontario. For the Ministry’s official wording, see the source link below. SmartStudy is an independent service and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by the Government of Ontario or the Ministry of Education. Ontario Curriculum and Resources ↗
