8th Grade · Expressions & Equations
Integer Exponent
8.EE.A.1
Definition
An exponent that is a whole number, which may be positive, zero, or negative. Positive means repeated multiplication, zero gives one, and negative gives a reciprocal.
Teach it
Where it is taught, with guided notes, practice, homework, an exit ticket and an interactive Teacher Deck.
Examples
- 23 = 8, 20 = 1, 2−3 = 1/8.
- As the exponent decreases by 1, the value is divided by the base.
Key rule
The pattern of dividing by the base is continuous through zero and into negatives.
Memory hook
Positive, zero, or negative — the pattern keeps going.