Math can be a challenging subject, especially when it comes to understanding the order of operations. To help learners aged 6 to 9 learn about the order of operations, we developed a new set of Montessori math task cards, Order of Operations: PEMDAS, that introduce the PEMDAS acronym. This blog post explains the benefits of this new material for classroom teachers and parents.
Materials
Budget-friendly options are available: printed, laminated, or laminated and cut
What are Montessori Math Task Cards?
Montessori Math Task Cards is a set of hands-on materials that help young students learn math concepts through self-directed exploration. Task cards are similar to flashcards, but they are designed to be interactive and involve student participation after they have received a formal presentation. Order of Operations: PEMDAS Task Cards have been developed to teach the order of operations using the PEMDAS acronym, one of the building blocks of arithmetic. PEMDAS is an acronym used to help children remember the order of operations in arithmetic. It stands for Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication, Division, Addition, and Subtraction (from left to right). Understanding the order of operations is essential for solving complex arithmetic problems.
How’s the Set Organized?
Section 1
This section consists of 12 Task Cards that contain equations involving no parentheses. For example, 10 x 19 – 17 + 15. On the back of each card is a control for errors where a step-by-step explanation is provided.
Section 2
This section offers 12 equations with one number associated with two numbers between parentheses. For example: 20 + (5 x 5). This section helps learners focus on calculating what is in between parentheses.
Section 3
This section contains 12 cards where two sets of parentheses must be calculated. Because some of the parentheses contain different arithmetic processes (x, ÷, +, -), learners must use the PEMDAS acronym to solve what is in the parentheses with three numbers. For example, (11 – 18 ÷ 9) – (10 x 19 + 15) = . Learners will solve division before subtraction, or multiplication before addition based on the order of operations.
Section 4
Section 4 contains 10 Task Cards and is similar to section 3 but contains parentheses within parentheses making the calculation more challenging. For example, ((16 + 3) x 7) – 5).
Section 5
The last section contains 10 Task Cards and a mix of equations reviewing all the previous sections. By the time learners get to this part, they should be comfortable in using the order of operation without referring to the large Control Chart provided with the Task Cards.
Besides classroom teachers, parents can use Order of Operations: PEMDAS Task Cards to extend their child’s learning at home. The Task Cards are designed to be simple and easy to use, so parents don’t need to be math experts to help their children learn about order operations. The self-correcting feature of the task cards also allows children to work independently. Parents can use the task cards to supplement their child’s math curriculum and help them build confidence and independence in math.
Order of Operations: PEMDAS effectively teaches young students the order of operations using the PEMDAS acronym. Classroom teachers and parents can use task cards to support other math materials and teach children skills in a hands-on, interactive way. Montessori Math Task Cards are designed to be simple and easy to use, making them a valuable resource for anyone looking to help their child learn math concepts in a fun and engaging way! For more Montessori supplemental materials, visit our website at www.alisonsmontessori.com.
