Worked Example 1
Whole Number Base
Evaluate 2⁵.
- 1Use 2 as a factor 5 times: 2 × 2 × 2 × 2 × 2
- 22 × 2 × 2 × 2 × 2 = 32
Answer: 32
Florida Grade 6 Math · Number Sense and Operations
MA.6.NSO.3.3: Exponents
What this Grade 6 benchmark means, worked examples, common mistakes, and a free printable worksheet.
Created by a Florida mom · Published by Tropical Learning LLC
What Is Benchmark MA.6.NSO.3.3?
An exponent tells how many times to use the base as a factor: 2⁵ = 2 × 2 × 2 × 2 × 2 = 32. Students evaluate positive rational numbers and integers with whole-number exponents up to 5.
With fractions, the exponent applies to both the numerator and denominator when the fraction is in parentheses: (23)2 = 49. A negative base in parentheses gives a positive result for even exponents and a negative result for odd exponents.
Official benchmarkEvaluate positive rational numbers and integers with natural number exponents.
On the FAST test: part of the Grade 6 reporting category Number Sense and Operations, which is about 33–42% of the test.
Worked Examples
Worked Example 2
Fraction and Negative Bases
Evaluate (23)3 and (−3)⁴.
- 1(23)3 = 23 × 23 × 23 = 827
- 2(−3)⁴ = (−3) × (−3) × (−3) × (−3) = 81
Answer: 827 and 81
Common Mistakes to Watch For
Multiplying the base by the exponent
Wrong:3⁴ = 12
3⁴ means 3 × 3 × 3 × 3 = 81.
Squaring only the numerator
Wrong:(34)2 = 94
Square the numerator and the denominator: (34)2 = 916.
Helpful Math Tip
Have your child write out the repeated multiplication before calculating. It prevents the "base times exponent" mistake.
Related Grade 6 Skills
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Start Practicing FreeIndependent Educational Platform. FastChomp is published by Tropical Learning LLC and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by the Florida Department of Education. FAST and Star assessment names are referenced for informational purposes only. FastChomp practice questions are original educational materials, not official Florida FAST assessment questions.