For Parent
Division with Exponents Using Variable Bases
Division with exponents using variable bases is a ninth-grade math concept in Ontario, Canada that involves using exponents and variables to solve division problems. It is a fairly straightforward concept, but can be difficult to understand for someone with Dyslexia.
Definition and Sample Equation
In division with exponents using variable bases, the division equation has an exponent on the numerator and the denominator. For example, the equation can be written:
$\frac{x^2}{y^3} =$ ?
In this equation, $x$ is the base of the numerator, and is raised to the power of 2 (exponent of the numerator). $y$ is the base of the denominator, and is raised to the power of 3 (exponent of the denominator). To solve this equation, we must divide the exponents, then divide the bases. Thus the answer is:
$\frac{x^2}{y^3} =$ $\frac{x}{y}$
Issues for 14 year old with Dyslexia and How to Help Overcome
Naming Variables
The 14 year old with Dyslexia may have trouble naming and remembering the different variables used in the equation like the base of the numerator ($x$) and the base of the denominator($y$). To help them overcome this, the parent can help the 14 year old label the variables with a simple sentence, like “We are dividing the power of 2 ($x^2$) by the power of 3 ($y^3$)”. This can help them understand and remember the different variables used in the equation.
Understanding How to Divide Exponents
The 14 year old with Dyslexia may also have difficulty understanding how to divide the exponents. To help them, the parent can explain the concept of division with exponents by breaking it down into simpler steps. For example, the parent can explain that when dividing exponents, the exponents should be divided first, and then the base number can be divided.
Trouble Listening to Instructions
The 14 year old with Dyslexia may also have trouble listening to and understanding instructions. To help them, the parent can restate the instructions from the teacher or break down the instructions into simpler steps. They can also practice the concept at home using simple division equations with different variables and exponents.
Let’s Review!
Division with Exponents using Variable Bases is a ninth-grade math concept that involves using exponents and variables to solve division problems. To solve a division equation with exponents and variable bases, the division equation must have an exponent on the numerator and the denominator. For example, the equation can be written:
$\frac{x^2}{y^3} =$ ?
To solve this equation, we must divide the exponents, then divide the bases. Thus the answer is: $\frac{x^2}{y^3} =$ $\frac{x}{y}$
The 14 year old with Dyslexia may have difficulty understanding this concept for various reasons. To help them overcome these issues, the parent can help the 14 year old label the variables with a simple sentence, explain the concept of division with exponents by breaking it down into simpler steps, and practice the concept at home.
For Youth
Division with exponents using variable bases from the grade 9 math curriculum in Ontario, Canada can seem like a difficult concept. But, if you break it down into steps, it can be much easier to understand. The equation looks like this:
a^(n1) ÷ b^(n2)= c^(n1-n2)
Let’s break it down.
“a” is the base for the numerator, and “b” is the base for the denominator.
“n1” is the exponent for the numerator, and “n2” is the exponent for the denominator.
“c” is the base for the answer.
The answer is given by the “c” base, and the two exponents, “n1” and “n2”, will be subtracted, so that “c^(n1-n2)”.
I understand that this is a lot to take in, so it may help if you try drawing out the equation and write it down. That way, you can clearly see all the components of the equation. If that doesn’t help, you can try breaking it down into smaller steps, and solve the equation step by step.
Most of all, don’t be discouraged. Math can be difficult and complicated. But, if you take it one step at a time, it can get easier. With lots of practice and perseverance, you can absolutely master this concept.
