Introduction to Order of Operations: PEMDAS Explained

Math with Mr. J

This instructional math video provides a clear and structured introduction to the Order of Operations, often remembered by the acronym PEMDAS. The presenter, Mr. J, breaks down the rules for solving mathematical expressions containing multiple operations, emphasizing the hierarchy of steps: Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication/Division, and Addition/Subtraction. He uses a digital chalkboard format to visually demonstrate how to simplify expressions step-by-step, ensuring viewers understand the logic behind each move. The video covers four distinct examples that increase in complexity. It starts with basic operations and progresses to problems involving parentheses and exponents. A crucial part of the instruction focuses on the common misconception regarding Multiplication/Division and Addition/Subtraction; Mr. J clarifies that these pairs are on the same priority level and must be solved from left to right, rather than strictly following the letter order of the acronym. For educators, this video is an excellent resource for introducing or reviewing 5th and 6th-grade algebraic thinking concepts. The visual "carrot method" (drawing lines to connect numbers being calculated) helps students organize their work and avoid careless errors. The explicit instruction on the "left-to-right" rule for same-level operations makes this particularly valuable for correcting persistent student errors in arithmetic.