Understanding the Order of Operations
Math problems can be tricky when they have multiple operations!
That's why we use special rules called the "Order of Operations" to solve them correctly every time. Remember the phrase "Please Excuse My Dear Aunt Sally" (PEMDAS) to help you remember the order!
The PEMDAS Steps
1️⃣ Parentheses - Solve what's inside ( ) first
2️⃣ Exponents - Solve powers like 2³ (we'll learn these later!)
3️⃣ Multiplication and Division - From left to right
4️⃣ Addition and Subtraction - From left to right
Let's Practice Together!
Example 1: Parentheses First!
Solve: 5 + (3 × 2)
Which part should we solve first?
Example 2: Multiplication Before Addition
Solve: 4 × 3 + 2
What's the correct order?
Parent Tips 🌟
- Make it a game: Create "operation races" where you write expressions and see who can solve them correctly fastest!
- Use real-life examples: "If you have 3 bags with 4 apples each, plus 2 extra apples, how many do you have?" (3×4+2=14)
- Highlight parentheses: Use colored markers to circle parentheses in problems to emphasize they come first.