Order of Operations Word Problems with Parentheses
Use the contents of one box to explain parentheses.
Teaching notes for parents and teachers
How to teach it
Combine the two amounts inside one box before multiplying by the number of boxes. Match the expression to the model.
Example to work through together
Use the model below as you explain the example. Have your student point to the quantities as you discuss them.
Every box has the same two quantities.
(3 + 5) × 4 = 8 × 4 = 32 counters
The parentheses describe one complete box. The factor 4 repeats that whole box.
Ask your student
What does the expression inside the parentheses represent?
If your student needs help
If the student multiplies only one part of the box, have them point to both parts in every box.
Choosing and using the worksheet
These four-problem worksheets use 1–12 counters of each color and 2–9 equal boxes. The calculations are intentionally small enough to focus attention on grouping and meaning. Ask for an expression and an explanation before checking the total.
Make a practice set
Select the worksheet, answer key, or both. When both are selected, the answer key prints after the questions. Keep it separate if you want your student to work independently.
After your student finishes
Ask what the parentheses represent. Check the total by multiplying each color count by the number of boxes, then combining the two color totals.
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More about multiplication · Grade 5 worksheets
Grade 5 selected skill connection: Selected 5.OA.A.1 and 5.OA.A.2: write, interpret and evaluate (a + b) × c in equal-box contexts; no nested grouping or other operations. See the Common Core standards for this grade. This worksheet does not cover every requirement in the standard.