Virginia SOL 5.CE.4.a.iii
The Standard
whole numbers will be limited to two digits or less
Virginia Standards of Learning for Mathematics · The student will simplify numerical expressions with whole numbers using the order of operations.
Teacher's field guide
What This Standard Means
What Students Need to Do
- Students simplify numerical expressions containing addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. They apply grouping and operation rules, working from left to right when operations have equal priority.
What Mastery Looks Like
- Students correctly simplify expressions with up to two-digit whole numbers. They handle grouping first, then multiplication and division, followed by addition and subtraction, working left to right when operations are equal.
Common Misconceptions
- Students may work strictly from left to right or always multiply before dividing. They may also add before subtracting, regardless of which comes first from left to right.
How to Assess It
- Exit ticket: Simplify 24 - 12 ÷ 3 × 2 and show one line for each step. Answer: 16.
Lesson moves
Ways to Teach It
Use number, operation, and parenthesis cards to build three-operation expressions, then have partners solve and compare each step.
Ask students to explain why 18 - 6 ÷ 3 × 2 equals 14, including which operation comes first and why.
Play an error hunt using prepared solution cards, with teams finding and correcting the first incorrect step in each expression.
Give students a snack shop price list and order totals, then have them write and simplify expressions for purchases and shared costs.
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Printable 5.CE.4.a.iii Worksheet
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