Beyond Base Ten (William & Mary Units)

Looking for a way to challenge your gifted students in math class? Look no further! Beyond Base Ten investigates the concept of place value and the representation of numbers by using place value and non-place-value systems. Number bases other than Base Ten are featured, especially through historical contexts of early civilizations that developed number systems different from the one we use today.

Place value is a fundamental and powerful concept that is the foundation for the number system used by all cultures. Typical curriculum materials address this concept in a rote method. This unit goes beyond this and encourages students to analyze the structure of our number system and other systems; examine the historical foundations of place value systems (Babylonian and Mayan) and non-place-value systems (Roman and Greek) over thousands of years in different civilizations; analyze why Base Ten is the surviving number system; and investigate applications of other number bases in areas such as computers and electricity. Beyond Base Ten is perfect for any student who loves mathematics!

Grades 3–6