Practice solving expressions using the correct order of operations (PEMDAS/BODMAS) with whole numbers, fractions, and simple exponents.
No signup required — instant download

This often happens when students correctly identify the order but make arithmetic errors within each step. Have them show their work for each individual calculation (like 3² = 9) before moving to the next operation. Also check that they're handling negative numbers correctly when they appear in exponents.
Both acronyms teach the same mathematical rules - PEMDAS (Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication/Division, Addition/Subtraction) and BODMAS (Brackets, Orders, Division/Multiplication, Addition/Subtraction) are just different ways to remember the same order. Stick with whichever your child's school uses to avoid confusion.
Explain that multiplication and division are performed from left to right when they appear together, just like addition and subtraction. Use the phrase 'same level' - multiplication and division are on the same level of importance, so you do whichever comes first as you read left to right.
Teach them that fraction bars work like invisible parentheses. In an expression like (2+3)/(4-1), they must solve 2+3=5 and 4-1=3 first, then divide 5÷3. Practice having them rewrite fraction problems with parentheses to make this clearer.
Learn how to teach fractions to kids in grades 2–5 with proven strategies, visual models, and hands-on methods that build real understanding — not just memorized rules.
Learn how to teach ratios and proportions to middle schoolers with step-by-step strategies, real-world examples, and hands-on activities for grades 6–8.
A practical parent guide to teaching geometry from kindergarten through 8th grade — covering shapes, angles, lines, and symmetry with hands-on activities and free worksheets.
Subscribe for new worksheets and homeschool tips. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.
The biggest mistake is forgetting about exponents and jumping straight to multiplication. Many students remember 'PEMDAS' but skip the 'E' and go from parentheses directly to multiplication. Emphasize that exponents (like 2³ or 5²) must be calculated immediately after handling any parentheses.