Are you looking for something a little more engaging to practice scientific notation this year? Below you will find 8 engaging activities for all parts of your unit on scientific notation. These resources are geared towards 8th grade, but would make a great addition to any pre-algebra classroom.
Jump to a Section
#1. Estimating Large Numbers
Objective: Estimate large numbers as the product of a single digit number times a power of 10.
Activity: Estimation Nation Road Trip Challenge – Students will take a road trip around the USA. They will determine the path they must take by estimating the populations of several cities!
#2. Estimating Small Numbers
Objective: Estimate small numbers as the product of a single digit number times a power of 10.
Activity (FREE!): Nature Activity – Students will estimate the measurements of various insects and elements found in nature with this visual activity!
#3. Comparing Numbers
Objective: Compare very large and very small numbers
Activity: Walk-Around Activity – Students will freely walk around as an “object,” determining approximately how many times greater they are than other “objects” around the room (their classmates).
#4. Scientific Notation
Objective: Write very small and very large numbers in scientific notation.
Activity: Scavenger Hunt Activity – Students practice scientific notation by solving a variety of questions posted around the room. Their answers will then lead them to the next problem!
Check out my curriculum guide for even more lessons and activities!
#5. Multiplying and Dividing Expressions in Scientific Notation
Objective: Multiply and divide expressions written in scientific notation
Activity: Partner Match Activity – Partner matches are a favorite for both students and teachers. Students work with a partner to complete DIFFERENT problems that have the SAME answers in this self-checking activity!
#6. Adding and Subtracting Expressions in Scientific Notation
Objective: Add and subtract expressions written in scientific notation
Activity: Riddle Activity – Students must solve problems to help them answer the question “Why do plants hate math?”
#7. Solving Real-World Problems Using Scientific Notation
Objective: Solve real-life problems using scientific notation
Activity: Poster Presentation Activity – Students will solve real-world problems and then create a detailed poster to present their findings!
#8. Scientific Notation Generated with a Calculator
Objective: Solve and interpret expressions in scientific notation using a calculator
Activity: Color-by-Number – Students solve expressions in scientific notation using their calculator and then use the answers to color in an owl!
Do you want them all? Get a discount when you purchase the entire bundle!
Other Resources
1. Check out my curriculum guide to view:
- free video lessons
- guided notes to follow the video
- hundreds of task cards
- more activities
- full lessons on MANY MORE topics!
2. My Teachers Pay Teachers store
3. Subscribe to receive my Math Teacher newsletter! Included in the newsletter:
- freebies each week free from all sorts of math creators
- links to math related blog posts
- nerdy math memes and jokes
- & more!