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We're used to answering maths questions in the order that they are written, but this doesn't always give us the correct answer! Very strange!
There are some rules we need to follow when answering questions using + - x and ÷
These rules are called BIDMAS
Brackets, Powers or Indices, Division and Multiplication, Addition and Subtraction
BIDMAS simply tells us the order in which we must do things.
In this activity, we are going to learn how to use + - x and ÷ in number sentences correctly.
There are more rules to BIDMAS than this - once you've mastered this skill you'll be ready to move on to the next level.
Let's get started.
If we have a number sentence that includes both addition or subtraction, and multiplication or division, we do the multiplication/division first (even if it is at the end of the question).
6 + 9 ÷ 3 = 6 + 3 = 9 (divide first)
7 + 8 x 2 = 7 + 16 = 23 (multiply first)
12 ÷ 4 + 10 = 3 + 10 = 13 (divide first)
3 x 7 - 6 = 21 - 6 = 15 (multiply first)
If we have a question that has just multiplication and division, we do them in the order in which they are written.
If we have a question that has just addition and subtraction, we do them in the order in which they are written (left to right).
15 + 6 - 3 = 18
15 - 3 + 12 = 24
4 x 9 ÷ 3 = 12
27 ÷ 3 x 2 = 18
Now, why don't you have a go at answering some similar questions?
Come back and have another look at this page if you get stuck by clicking on the red help button on the screen.
Good luck!
