Order of Operations Pumpkin Puzzles
This download includes 18 pumpkin puzzles to practice calculating expressions using the order of operations.
What is order of operations?
The order of operations is a set of guidelines created to ensure that all math calculations are solved the same way.
For example, say you are given the expression: 3 x 5 + 9 x 2.
If I solve it strictly from left to right (multiply 3 and 5, then add 9, then multiply by 2), I would get a solution of 48.
But if you solve by multiplying 3 x 5 and 9 x 2 first, and then add, you would get a solution of 33.
So which answer is correct?
Well, thanks to a standard known as order of operations, the correct solution is 33. This ensures that everyone follows the same order when solving problems, and solutions remain consistent.
So in case you are unfamiliar, the order of operations is as follows:
- Parentheses and brackets (start by solving everything inside parentheses first)
- Exponents (solve all exponents)
- Multiplication and division (solve all multiplication and division from left to right)
- Addition and subtraction (solve all addition and subtraction from left to right)
How to use the order of operations puzzles:
Simply print them on cardstock and use a laminator so the puzzles don't get bent and can be used over and over again. Then , cut each pumpkin into two pieces, and the puzzles are ready to go!
To complete the puzzles, students simply calculate the value of the expression given on the top of each pumpkin. To do this, they must correctly follow order of operations. Find the bottom pumpkin piece that has the correct solution. Easy!
These expressions were designed with fairly simple numbers so that kids can put their mental math skills to work as well. Solving these calculations mentally is a great workout for the brain. Plus, it will help kids practice and increase their fact fluency.
I hope your kids will have fun practicing math skills in a unique way with these fun, Fall puzzles!
Want more pumpkin math ideas? Try one of these resources:
- How much does a pumpkin cost? (3 part Algebra lesson)
- Sixteen Runaway Pumpkins (printable board game)
- How many seeds in a pumpkin? (hands on math fun)
- 2000+ page of free math worksheets
Download Order of Operations Pumpkin Puzzles
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- This set is for personal and classroom use only.
- This printable set may not be sold, hosted, reproduced, or stored on any other website or electronic retrieval system.
- Graphics Purchased and used with permission
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Bethany is the mom behind the blog, Math Geek Mama, a website dedicated to making math fun and engaging, while building a strong conceptual understanding of mathematics. When she's not playing with numbers, she is exploring with her four little ones, drinking way too much coffee, or soaking up the chaos of everyday life. Follow along on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and Twitter.
