Properties of operations
Commutative, associative and distributive: shortcuts for mental maths. Read one part at a time and tap “I know this”. Then test yourself in the quiz.
Know it already? Jump straight to the quiz
Properties of operations
| Property | What it says | Example |
|---|---|---|
| commutative | order does not matter for + and × | 3 + 5 = 5 + 3; 4 × 7 = 7 × 4 |
| associative | grouping does not matter for + and × | (2 + 3) + 4 = 2 + (3 + 4) |
| distributive | spread the multiplication over a sum | 6 × 14 = 6 × 10 + 6 × 4 = 84 |
Subtraction and division are not commutative: 8 − 3 ≠ 3 − 8.
- Any number × 1 = the same number; any number × 0 = 0.
- Any number + 0 = the same number.
Remember this and test yourself
- Commutative: 3 + 5 = 5 + 3 (also ×).
- Associative: brackets can move for + and ×.
- Distributive: 6 × 14 = 6 × 10 + 6 × 4.
- Not for subtraction and division.
Write these points in your book. Read them again the night before the test.
Swap, group, spread: three shortcuts.
Important words
First say the answer yourself, then turn the card over.
Match column A to column B
Tap a word in column A, then its meaning in column B. You can also start in column B.
True or false?
Read the question and the answer. Is the answer right? Tap True or False.
Now the real quiz!
The quiz has many more questions on this topic. Every question shows straight away whether you are right and explains why.
Take the quiz: Properties of operations- Let your child work the examples on paper and explain them to you.
- The ticks (“I know this”) are saved on this device only. We never ask for names or emails.
Follows CAPS for Grade 4 Mathematics. Always check your teacher’s notes and textbook too.