Math6-8
Order of Operations with Exponents for 6th Grade
By Clint R.
A reference-style practice set for 6th graders that walks through PEMDAS/GEMS with a step-by-step checklist, a visual flow map, and a worked example. It builds the skill of simplifying expressions in the correct order, including exponents, and works well as an anchor for a focused math block.
Customize for your classroom
Teacher Guide & Tips
- Introduce the 'why' callout first, using the 2 + 3 × 5 example to show students why a shared order prevents different answers.
- Discussion question: Why do you think multiplication comes before addition, and what would change if we always worked left to right?
- Scaffold for struggling readers: have them color-code each level of the flow map and copy the checklist onto an index card to reference while solving problems.
- Extension for advanced students: ask them to build their own expression that uses parentheses, an exponent, and both multiplication and subtraction, then trade with a partner to solve.
- Estimated time: about 30 to 45 minutes for the reference section, the worked example, and a short set of practice problems.
Math6-8
Order of Operations with Exponents for 6th Grade
By Clint R.
A reference-style practice set for 6th graders that walks through PEMDAS/GEMS with a step-by-step checklist, a visual flow map, and a worked example. It builds the skill of simplifying expressions in the correct order, including exponents, and works well as an anchor for a focused math block.
Customize for your classroom
Teacher Guide & Tips
- Introduce the 'why' callout first, using the 2 + 3 × 5 example to show students why a shared order prevents different answers.
- Discussion question: Why do you think multiplication comes before addition, and what would change if we always worked left to right?
- Scaffold for struggling readers: have them color-code each level of the flow map and copy the checklist onto an index card to reference while solving problems.
- Extension for advanced students: ask them to build their own expression that uses parentheses, an exponent, and both multiplication and subtraction, then trade with a partner to solve.
- Estimated time: about 30 to 45 minutes for the reference section, the worked example, and a short set of practice problems.