Math Lab Activity

– Number Power Walk

Objective:

In this activity, you will explore the concept of powers of numbers by physically walking distances that represent the results of raising a number to different powers.

Materials Needed:

• Open outdoor space or a large indoor area
• Starting line marker
• Measurement tools (optional, for greater precision)

Instructions:

1. Understanding Powers of Numbers:
   Make sure you understand the concept of raising a number to a certain power. For example, squaring a number (raising to the second power) means multiplying the number by itself, while cubing a number (raising to the third power) involves multiplying the number by itself three times.
2. Forming Groups and Starting Line:
   Divide into groups of four students. Stand behind a designated starting line. For this round, you will be focusing on the number 2.
3. Walking Off Distances:
   In the first round, each participant from the group will take steps according to the powers of 2:
   – First participant: 2^1 = 2 steps
   – Second participant: 2^2 = 4 steps
   – Third participant: 2^3 = 8 steps
   – Fourth participant: 2^4 = 16 steps
4. Estimating Longer Distances:
   As the distances become too great to walk off in a straight line, think of an estimate of where a few more powers of 2 would place an individual. For example, if you were to continue with 2^5 or 2^6, where might those distances be approximate?
5. Exploring Other Numbers:
   Try the same activity with a different number, such as 3 or 4. You can use a different method for each new Number Power Walk, like hopping instead of walking. You can also use measurement tools like trundle wheels or long tapes for more accuracy.
6. Reflection:
   After completing several Number Power Walks, reflect on how the distances changed as you raised the number to different powers. How did your estimations compare to the actual distances?

Through this activity, you will gain a hands-on understanding of the concept of the powers of numbers and have an enjoyable time exploring mathematical ideas in a physical way.

Example:

In the illustration shown, the players have made Number Power Walks of 2¹, 2²,  and 2³ paces.

Ignite Your Mathematical Mind:

• Try a situation in which the powers remain constant but the base numbers sequentially increase in size.

For example, have students determine what will result when a series of numbers is cubed, such as 2³, 3³, 4³, 5³, and so on.