Florida B.E.S.T. MA.912.AR.5.1

MathGrades 9–12Write, solve and graph exponential and logarithmic equations and functions in one and two variables.

The Standard

Solve one-variable exponential equations using the properties of exponents.

Florida B.E.S.T. Standards for Mathematics

Teacher's field guide

What Students Need to Do: Students rewrite both sides of an exponential equation using the same base. They apply exponent rules, set the exponents equal, and solve for the variable.
What Mastery Looks Like: A student rewrites each side using a common base, simplifies the exponents, and solves the resulting linear equation. The student checks the solution in the original equation.
Common Misconceptions: Students may multiply exponents when they should add them, or apply a power to only one factor. They may equate exponents before rewriting both sides with the same base. Negative or fractional solutions can also cause sign errors.
How to Assess It: Give the exit ticket: Solve 8^(x-1) = 4^(2x+1) without logarithms, and show each rewrite. The correct solution is x = -5.

Lesson moves

Give students base and exponent cards to build equivalent forms of 8^(x-1) = 4^(2x+1), then solve by matching exponents.
Ask students to explain in writing why equal powers with the same positive base must have equal exponents.
Run a team relay where students rewrite, solve, and check one exponential equation before passing the next card.
Use 200 × 2^(t/3) = 1600 to find when a bacteria culture reaches 1,600 cells.

Free download

$Preview of the MA.912.AR.5.1 printable worksheet$

A ready-to-print activity worksheet aligned to MA.912.AR.5.1, with an answer key for the teacher on its own page. No account needed.

PDF, US Letter, prints cleanly in black and white.

Keep exploring

Grade, subject, topic, and the complete standard are prefilled. Create one free, no account needed.