BODMAS

Learning Intention: To apply the BODMAS rule to solve a variety of equations with multiple operations.

Learning experience overview:

What is BODMAS?

BODMAS is an acronym to help children remember the order of mathematical operations – the correct order in which to solve maths problems.

Bodmas stands for B-Brackets, O-Orders (powers/indices or roots), D-Division, M-Multiplication, A-Addition, S-Subtraction.

Launch:

How would you solve the following equations?

Below is an example question showing the process or steps we use to answer a BODMAS equation. Students completed example equations in their math book.

53-(424)+202=

53-(164)+202=

53-4+202 =

125-4+20=

125-24=101

Following the launch, each student completed a differentiated activity aimed at their point of need:

Enable - Equations involving two operations, i.e. 15 - 5 x 3 =
Explore - Multiple BODMAS equations with various operations, i.e.23-(423)+122=
Extend - Using their knowledge of BODMAS students were asked to complete the following task

Using all of the digits, 9,8,7,6,5,4,3,2,1 and any operations-

What is the largest possible number you can make?
What is the smallest number you can make?

In this unit, students have implemented:

An understanding of BODMAS:

Students work to grasp the concept of BODMAS (Brackets, Orders, Division and Multiplication, Addition and Subtraction) and its importance in solving mathematical expressions correctly.

Order of Operations:

Students apply the correct order of operations when solving expressions, focusing on brackets, exponents, multiplication, division, addition, and subtraction.

Problem-Solving Skills:

Students use problem-solving skills to solve a variety of mathematical expressions and equations using BODMAS principles.

Accuracy and Efficiency:

Accuracy and efficiency is essential when following the BODMAS rules to avoid errors and simplify complex expressions.

Critical Thinking:

Critical thinking skills are required by students to analyse expressions, identify the order of operations, and justify their solutions through mathematical reasoning.

Examples of student work:

What you can do to continue this learning at home:

Have discussions about how order of operations works and its importance when calculating equations.
Create your own BODMAS equations and work through them together.
There are multiple BODMAS and order of operations games and fun worksheets that can be downloaded and completed from online resources.

Jenny, and Brad

Year 5/6 Team

Jenny.Kourkouvelis@education.vic.gov.au

Brad.Neyland@education.vic.gov.au

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