Order of operations
BODMAS: brackets, orders, division and multiplication, addition and subtraction. 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
The order of operations
| Step | What? |
|---|---|
| 1 | Brackets ( ) |
| 2 | Orders: powers and roots |
| 3 | Division and Multiplication, left to right |
| 4 | Addition and Subtraction, left to right |
3 + 4 × 5 = 3 + 20 = 23 (not 35!). (3 + 4) × 5 = 7 × 5 = 35.
Division and multiplication are equal: do them left to right: 20 ÷ 4 × 5 = 5 × 5 = 25. Addition and subtraction too: 10 − 3 + 2 = 7 + 2 = 9 (not 10 − 5 = 5).
Magic squares
In a magic square every row, column and diagonal adds up to the same total. Find the missing number from the known total.
Rows 8, 1, 6 / 3, 5, 7 / 4, 9, 2: every row, column and diagonal adds up to 15 (8 + 1 + 6 = 15; 8 + 3 + 4 = 15; 8 + 5 + 2 = 15). If one row is 8, 1, ?, then ? = 15 − 8 − 1 = 6.
Remember this and test yourself
- Brackets first.
- Then powers and roots.
- Then division and multiplication, left to right.
- Finally addition and subtraction, left to right.
Write these points in your book. Read them again the night before the test.
BODMAS: Brackets, Orders, Divide, Multiply, Add, Subtract.
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.
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: Order 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 7 Mathematics. Always check your teacher’s notes and textbook too.