Education Technology

Mathematics lessons for IB® Diploma Programme

Applications and Interpretation | Numbers and Algebra

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Scientific Notation

Activity Overview

This activity gives students an opportunity to see where large and small numbers are used and how scientific notation offers a convenient method of writing such numbers.

Key Steps

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Step 1

In this activity, students explore very large numbers, very small numbers, and learn how to convert numbers between expanded form and scientific notation. Students change the mode from Normal to Sci and back to display the desired format. They will also place numbers in appropriate locations on a number line.

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Step 2

Students use a paper folding scenario to explore large numbers in scientific notation.

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Step 3

Then, students use probability to explore very small numbers in scientific notation