Lesson 2: 1-2 Order of Operations

What does it mean to evaluate an expression?

Why is the order of oeprations used to evaluate expressions?

How do grouping symbols affect the order of operations?

Evaluate
Order of Operations

A.SSE.1b
Interpret expressions that represent a quantity in terms of its context.
b. Interpret complicated expressions by viewing one or more of their parts as a single entity. For example, interpret P(1+r)n as the product of P and a factor not
depending on P

A.SSE.2
Use the structure of an expression to identify ways to rewrite it. For example, see x4 – y4 as (x2)2 – (y2)2, thus recognizing it as a difference of squares that can be
factored as (x2 – y2)(x2 + y2).

Chapter 1A (1-1 - 1-4) (Skip 1-3) 1B (1-6-1-8 skip end behavior) (Skip 1-5)

Perseverance: Mathematically proficient students try simpler forms of the original problem in order to gain insight. In Exercise 61, suggest that students start by combining pairs of numbers.

The admission price for an aquarium theme park are $78.95 per adult and $68.95 per child. If four adults and three children go to the park, the expression below represents the cost of admission for the group. 4(78.95)+3(68.95)

Not all calculators follow the order of operations when evaluating expressions. NOnscientific calculators evaluate expressions in the order they are entered. All scientific calculators (including graphing calculators) follow the order of operations. However, for longer expressions, you may have to use grouping symbols or be creative when entering the expression in order to get the correct answer.

If students have difficulty evaluating complex algebraic expressions, then pair these students with advanced students and suggest that they work through the exercises step-by-step.

Extension Write the numbers 2, 3, 4, and 8 on the board. Tell students to make the number 8 by using each of the four numbers exactly once along with any operation and grouping symbols.

Use Exercises 1–14 to assess students' understanding of the concepts in this lesson.

The Practice and Problem Solving exercises assess the content taught in the lesson.

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