Exponents - Negative Bases and Exponents - Intro

This math unit progresses from fundamental to advanced aspects of exponentiation and integer multiplication concepts. Initially, students practice the basics of multiplying negative integers, starting with simple negative times positive integer equations and advancing to negative times negative integer calculations. The unit then progresses to the study of exponents, beginning with squaring integers and gradually moving toward complex scenarios involving negative bases and exponents. Students learn how the number of negative multiples affects the product, exploring exponent rules as they apply to negative bases raised to various powers, observing changes in sign and magnitude based on whether the exponent is odd or even. Further complexity is added as students delve into working with negative exponents and evaluating expressions where bases are negative numbers or unit fractions raised to the power of -1, emphasizing reciprocal relationships and the need for careful handling of negative exponents and fractional bases.