1. Definition:
    • A numerical expression is a mathematical phrase that includes numbers and operations (such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division) but does not include an equals sign.
  2. Order of Operations:
    • To correctly evaluate numerical expressions, follow the order of operations, often remembered by the acronym PEMDAS:
      • Parentheses
      • Exponents (not typically covered in 6th grade, but it’s good to be aware)
      • Multiplication and Division (from left to right)
      • Addition and Subtraction (from left to right)

Steps to Evaluate Numerical Expressions

  1. Step 1: Parentheses
    • Solve expressions inside parentheses first.
    • Example: (3+4)×2
  2. Step 2: Multiplication and Division
    • Perform all multiplication and division from left to right.
    • Example: 3+4×2
  3. Step 3: Addition and Subtraction
    • Perform all addition and subtraction from left to right.
    • Example: 3+(4×2)

Example Problems

  1. Simple Example:
    • 5+3×2
      • First, multiply: 3×2=6
      • Then, add: 5+6=11
  2. With Parentheses:
    • (2+3)×4
      • First, solve inside parentheses: 2+3=5
      • Then, multiply: 5×4=20
  3. Multiple Operations:
    • 6−2×3+4÷2
      • First, multiply and divide from left to right:
        • 2×3=6
        • 4÷2=2
      • Then, add and subtract from left to right:
        • 6−6+2=0+2=2

Tips for Students

  • Write Clearly:
    • Write each step of your work to avoid mistakes.
  • Double-Check:
    • Always double-check each operation to ensure accuracy.
  • Use Parentheses:
    • When in doubt, use parentheses to clarify the order of operations.
  • Practice:
    • Regular practice with different types of problems helps reinforce the rules.

Learn with an example

🔮 Evaluate the expression.

2+4÷2

First, identify the operations in the expression.

2+4÷2 This expression has addition and division.

The order of operations says to divide before adding.

2+4÷2=2+2

Now, add.2+2=4.

The value of the expression is 4.

(y2 + z) ÷ x

Solution :

= (y2 + x) ÷ x

Substitute x = 5, y = 8 and z = 6.

= (82 + 6) ÷ 5

= (64 + 6) ÷ 5

= 70 ÷ 5

= 14

(PQ – 28)2 ÷ r

Solution :

(pq – 28)2 ÷ r

Substitute p = 6, q = 5 and r = 4.

= [(6)(5) – 28]2 ÷ 4

= (30 – 28)2 ÷ 4

= 22 ÷ 4

= 4 ÷ 4

= 1

2÷1–5

First, identify the operations in the expression.

2÷1–5

This expression has division and subtraction. The order of operations says to divide before subtracting.

= 2–5

Now, subtract.

2 – 5

= -3

The value of the expression is -3

Let’s Practice!