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Year 9 - Maths

Multiples of 10 involving negative exponents

Standard form

Unit Summary

In this unit pupils learn to recognise, interpret and write in standard form. Pupils then extend this knowledge so that they can order numbers written in standard form.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to write any integer in a range of forms.

Key Notes

  • A positive exponent tells you how many identical values must be multiplied together.
  • Dividing by 10^n is the same as multiplying by its reciprocal.
  • A negative exponent tells you how many reciprocals of the base must be multiplied together.
  • a^(−3) = 1/a^3

Vocabulary To Learn

  • Exponential form: When a number is multiplied by itself multiple times, it can be written more simply in exponential form.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • A negative exponent implies that the entire value is negative.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Solve this in steps: explain the method from this lesson and why each step matters.

A positive exponent tells you how many identical values must be multiplied together. Dividing by 10^n is the same as multiplying by its reciprocal.

2. Use this key word in a maths sentence and explain it clearly. 'Exponential form'

When a number is multiplied by itself multiple times, it can be written more simply in exponential form. Use this word when showing your method, then check your final answer is reasonable.

3. Spot and fix this common maths mistake.

Mistake: A negative exponent implies that the entire value is negative. Correction: Refer back to the table showing the structure of how the negative exponents occur and highlight that none of the decimal values are negative.

More Lessons In This Unit

Browse all guides in the Year 9 Maths guide library.