For Parent
Multiplication with Exponents
Multiplication with exponents is a Grade 9 math concept that uses integral bases. Integral bases are simply numbers. In Grade 9 math, you will use integral bases to multiply exponents. An exponent is simply a number that is “raised” to a certain power (multiplied a certain number of times). The equation should look something like this:
Bn * Bm = Bn+m
For example, if you wanted to calculate 32 * 33, you would use the equation to solve it like this:
32 * 33 = 32+3 = 35 = 243
For a student with Dyslexia, there can be a few obstacles to understanding multiplication with exponents. Here are some tips for helping the 14 year old understand this concept:
Issue #1: Understanding the Terms
The first issue the 14 year old might have with multiplying exponents is understanding the terms in the equation. To help with this, take the time to define each term simply and clearly. Explain what ‘integral bases’ and ‘exponents’ are, what it means to ‘multiply’ two numbers, and any other terms the student might not be familiar with. Make sure the student repeats each definition to you to show they understand the meaning of the words.
Issue #2: Memorizing the Equation
The second issue might be memorizing the equation itself. To help with this, have the student repeat and write out the equation a few times throughout the lesson. Make sure they say both numbers and words when they read the equation out loud. Having the student create diagrams or visuals of the equation can help them to remember it better.
Issue #3: Solving the Equation
The third issue is actually solving the equation. To help with this, break down each step of the equation and use manipulatives and real-life examples to help the student visualize the problem. For example, if the student is solving the equation 32 * 33, use 3 real-life objects to represent the 3 in the equation, and have the student “multiply” them by counting, and then use the objects to explain how multiplying the two exponents is similar to multiplying the two numbers written in the equation.
In Grade 9 math, you use an equation to help multiply exponents. The equation is Bn * Bm = Bn+m. an example of this equation might be 32 * 33 = 243.
For Youth
Multiplication with exponents using integral bases from the grade 9 math curriculum in Ontario, Canada is a concept that looks hard, but it is easier to understand once broken down into simple steps.
First, let’s look at what an exponent is. An exponent is a number that is written as a small number next to a larger number. For example, if you have 2 to the power of 4, it is written as “24”, with the 4 as the small number next to the 2. This simply means that you have to multiply the number 2 four times. So, “24” is equal to 2 x 2 x 2 x 2, which is 16.
Integral bases are the same as any number. An integral base is the number you are multiplying. For example, if you have 5 to the power of 3, this means that you would have to multiply 5 all three times (5 x 5 x 5).
Now, let’s talk about multiplication with exponents. This is when you multiply two exponent expressions (2x2x2x2 from the example above) together. For example, if we use the same two 2’s from the example above, we can multiply them together. “24 x 24” is equal to 16 multiplied by 16 or 256.
To help you better understand this concept, I recommend using little puzzle pieces or building blocks to help you visualize the numbers you are trying to work with. This can help you understand the concept of multiplying exponents better. Another suggestion is to draw out a picture of the equation to help you remember it better.
I am sure with a little bit of practice, you will be able to understand this concept better and get better and better at it. Know that mistakes are okay and are a part of the learning process. Don’t be afraid to take your time and enjoy the process. I believe in you!
