Lesson Plan

Crack the PEMDAS Code Lesson Plan

Students will understand the order of operations using PEMDAS (excluding exponents) and apply it to solve simple math problems confidently, with differentiated support for students on IEPs.

Learning the simplified PEMDAS strengthens students' math problem-solving skills and builds a strong foundation, while ensuring that all learners, including those on IEPs, can succeed.

Audience

Time

Approach

Materials

Prep

Preparation Steps

10 minutes

Step 1

Warm-Up

5 minutes

Step 2

Main Activity

20 minutes

Step 3

Cool-Down

5 minutes

Slide Deck

Crack the PEMDAS Code!

Introduce the lesson with an energetic welcome. Use a vibrant slide with cheerful diagrams representing each component of PEMDAS (excluding exponents). Emphasize that each letter represents a type of math operation to be performed in sequence. Include pictures/icons for Parentheses, Multiplication, Division, Addition, and Subtraction to support visual learning.

What is PEMDAS?

Explain what PEMDAS stands for, excluding exponents. Use visual icons to represent Parentheses, Multiplication, Division, Addition, and Subtraction. This will support students on IEPs by making abstract concepts more concrete.

Step 1: Parentheses

Focus on the first part of PEMDAS: Parentheses. Incorporate diagrams that visually walk through an example, such as highlighting text within parentheses first.

Step 2: Multiplication & Division

Discuss the next operations: Multiplication and Division, focusing on the left-to-right rule. Include a diagram that uses arrows to show the sequence.

Step 3: Addition & Subtraction

Conclude with Addition and Subtraction. Display a simple diagram that steps through the process, highlighting the sequential calculation for clarity.

Let's Practice!

Engage students with an interactive activity. Ask them to solve a problem together using PEMDAS (without exponents) and then share their answers. Encourage discussion and provide additional visuals as needed.