Unit 7, Lesson 13
Definition of Scientific Notation
Grade 8
Preparation
Lesson Narrative
This lesson formalizes what students have learned about writing numbers as a multiple of a power of 10 by introducing the definition of scientific notation. A number is said to be in scientific notation if it is written as a product of two factors where the first factor is a number greater than or equal to 1, but less than 10, and the second factor is an integer power of 10.
Students practice identifying numbers written in scientific notation before working with a partner to match cards that show equivalent values. Values are written as decimals, as multiples of powers of 10, or in scientific notation. When making matches, students have the opportunity to explain their thinking and critique the reasoning of others (MP3).
- Identify (in writing) numbers written in scientific notation, and describe (orally) the features of an expression in scientific notation.
- Use scientific notation to represent (in writing) large and small numbers.
Let’s use scientific notation to describe large and small numbers.
Required Materials
Required Preparation
The blackline master for Scientific Notation Matching has three sets of cards. Set A is for the teacher to demonstrate the process, so only one copy of set A is needed. Cut out one set of cards (either set B or set C) for every 2 students. If possible, copy each complete set on a different color of paper to help keep them organized.