Problem solving with standard form calculations
I can use my knowledge of standard form to solve problems.
Problem solving with standard form calculations
I can use my knowledge of standard form to solve problems.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- It can be useful to have very large or very small numbers written in standard form.
- Being able to perform arithmetic operations on numbers written in standard form reduces error during conversion.
- Standard form calculations can be done quickly with the use of a calculator.
Keywords
Standard form - Standard form is when a number is written in the form A × 10n, (where 1 ≤ A < 10 and n is an integer).
Exponential form - When a number is multiplied by itself multiple times, it can be written more simply in exponential form.
Commutative - The commutative law states you can write the values of a calculation in a different order without changing the calculation; the result is still the same. It applies for addition and multiplication.
Associative - The associative law states that it doesn't matter how you group or pair values (i.e. which we calculate first), the result is still the same. It applies for addition and multiplication.
Common misconception
Incorrect use of the calculator when finding the mean of numbers. Omitting the brackets when summing the values.
Encourage pupils to calculate the sum of the values and record this before dividing by the number of values. This also encourages a record of a method.
To help you plan your year 10 maths lesson on: Problem solving with standard form calculations, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 10 maths lesson on: Problem solving with standard form calculations, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
Explore more key stage 4 maths lessons from the Standard form calculations unit, dive into the full secondary maths curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.