Grade 4Matheasy
Order of Operations
Order of Operations — Order of Operations worksheet for Grade 4.
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What Your Child Will Learn
- Apply the correct order of operations (PEMDAS/BODMAS) to solve two-step and three-step arithmetic problems with addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division
- Identify which operation to perform first in mixed-operation expressions without parentheses
- Solve word problems that require following the order of operations to find the correct answer
- Demonstrate understanding that multiplication and division must be completed before addition and subtraction
How to Use This Worksheet
- Step 1: Read the problem aloud together and identify all the operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication, or division) present in the expression. Circle or underline each operation symbol.
- Step 2: Have your student determine which operation to perform first using the order of operations rule. Remind them that multiplication and division always come before addition and subtraction, regardless of their position in the expression.
- Step 3: Solve the first (priority) operation and write the new number below the original problem. This creates a clear record of their work and helps prevent careless errors.
- Step 4: Look at the remaining numbers and operations. Repeat Steps 2-3 until only one number remains. This systematic approach prevents confusion when multiple steps are needed.
- Step 5: Review the final answer by working backward or solving the problem again using the same method to check for accuracy.
Tips for Parents & Teachers
Introduce the acronym PEMDAS (Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication/Division, Addition/Subtraction) or use the phrase 'Please Excuse My Dear Aunt Sally' as a memory aid. At the G4 level, focus primarily on MD and AS since parentheses and exponents may not be included in easy-difficulty problems.
Watch for the common mistake of solving left-to-right without considering operation priority. For example, students often compute 2 + 3 × 4 as (2 + 3) × 4 = 20 instead of 2 + (3 × 4) = 14. Have them circle or underline the multiplication/division first before solving.
Use visual markers or color-coding to help students separate operations. Have them write the problem with different colors for each step or draw arrows showing which operation comes first, making the invisible priority rules visible.
Start each problem by asking students to identify all the operations present, then ask 'Which operation do we do first?' This metacognitive approach builds understanding rather than just memorized rules.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my child need to do multiplication before addition if it comes after in the problem?
Order of operations is a universal mathematical agreement that ensures everyone gets the same answer when solving the same problem. Multiplication is prioritized over addition not because of position, but because of mathematical convention. This prevents confusion and ensures consistency across all math problems. Think of it like traffic rules—everyone follows the same order to avoid accidents.
What's the best way to teach my fourth grader to remember the order of operations?
The acronym PEMDAS (Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication/Division, Addition/Subtraction) is helpful, but for G4 easy worksheets, focus on the simpler phrase 'Multiply and Divide before you Add and Subtract.' You can create a chart to display during practice, use color-coding, or have your child write the steps out explicitly rather than trying to memorize. Practice with real-world examples like sharing snacks or combining groups of items to make it tangible.
Should my child always write out every step, or can they eventually do these problems in their head?
For fourth grade, writing out each step is essential for building understanding and catching errors. The process of breaking down the problem teaches the rule more effectively than rushing to a mental answer. As they practice more problems on this worksheet and gain confidence, you can gradually reduce the written steps, but always encourage showing work during this learning phase.
What if my child solves the problem correctly but gets the wrong answer due to careless arithmetic (like 3 × 4 = 11)?
This is different from not understanding order of operations. Praise them for following the correct order, then review basic facts separately. Have them use manipulatives (blocks, counters) or drawing to verify their multiplication and division facts. Consider creating a reference card with basic facts they struggle with while working through this worksheet.
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