Article Plan: Order of Operations Worksheet Grade 6 PDF (as of 12/18/2025 17:45:03)
This article details resources for a Grade 6 PDF worksheet, focusing on mastering the order of operations using PEMDAS.
It explores BigIdeasMath.com,
specifically page 6 and section 1.2,
providing practice and review exercises.
The content emphasizes understanding and applying PEMDAS
through various problem types,
including bracket insertion and missing operation signs.
Key Stage 2, Year 6 content practice questions and answer sheets are also highlighted.
Understanding the correct sequence of mathematical operations is crucial for 6th Grade students. This involves mastering PEMDAS – parentheses, exponents, multiplication, division, addition, and subtraction –
to ensure consistent and accurate problem-solving practice.
These worksheets provide essential practice, building a foundation for more complex mathematical concepts.
What are the Order of Operations?
The order of operations is a set of rules dictating the sequence in which calculations are performed to evaluate a mathematical expression correctly. It’s a universally accepted convention ensuring everyone arrives at the same answer. Without a standardized order, the same problem could yield multiple, differing results, leading to confusion and inaccuracies.
This order is commonly remembered using the acronym PEMDAS – Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication and Division (from left to right), and Addition and Subtraction (also from left to right). Essentially, it prioritizes operations, starting with those enclosed in parentheses or brackets, then addressing exponents, followed by multiplication and division on a left-to-right basis, and finally, addition and subtraction, also working from left to right.
Grade 6 students begin to encounter more complex expressions, making a firm grasp of PEMDAS absolutely essential. Worksheets focusing on this concept provide targeted practice, reinforcing this fundamental mathematical skill.
Why is Order of Operations Important?
Understanding the order of operations isn’t merely about following rules; it’s about ensuring mathematical consistency and accuracy. Imagine a scenario without a defined order – the same equation could produce vastly different answers depending on the calculation sequence. This ambiguity would render mathematical communication unreliable and ineffective.
For 6th-grade students, mastering this concept is a crucial stepping stone towards more advanced mathematical concepts like algebra. A solid foundation in PEMDAS prevents errors in problem-solving and builds confidence in tackling increasingly complex equations. Practice with worksheets reinforces this understanding, solidifying the correct sequence of operations.
Furthermore, the order of operations has real-world applications, from calculating finances to building structures. Correctly applying PEMDAS ensures accurate results in practical scenarios, highlighting its importance beyond the classroom. Resources like those found on BigIdeasMath.com aid in this crucial skill development.
Relevance to 6th Grade Math
The order of operations, governed by PEMDAS, is a cornerstone skill introduced in 6th-grade math curricula. It bridges the gap between basic arithmetic and more complex algebraic thinking. Students move beyond simple addition and subtraction to tackle multi-step problems requiring a defined calculation sequence.
Worksheets, particularly those in PDF format, provide targeted practice essential for solidifying this understanding. Resources like BigIdeasMath.com, specifically page 6 and section 1.2, offer structured exercises aligned with 6th-grade learning objectives. These exercises build fluency and accuracy.
Mastering PEMDAS isn’t just about memorizing an acronym; it’s about developing logical thinking and problem-solving skills. This skill is fundamental for success in future math courses, including pre-algebra and algebra. Consistent practice and utilizing available answer keys are vital for reinforcing this core mathematical concept.

The PEMDAS Acronym
PEMDAS—Please Excuse My Dear Aunt Sally—is a mnemonic device aiding recall of the order of operations: Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication, Division, Addition, and Subtraction.
Understanding PEMDAS: Please Excuse My Dear Aunt Sally
PEMDAS isn’t just a catchy phrase; it’s the foundational rule governing mathematical expression evaluation. “Please Excuse My Dear Aunt Sally” represents the priority sequence: Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication and Division (from left to right), and finally, Addition and Subtraction (also from left to right).
Grade 6 students utilizing order of operations worksheets will encounter problems demanding strict adherence to this order. Ignoring PEMDAS leads to incorrect solutions, emphasizing its critical importance. Worksheets, like those found on BigIdeasMath.com (page 6, section 1.2), are designed to reinforce this understanding through targeted practice.
Mastering PEMDAS isn’t about memorization alone; it’s about comprehending why this order exists to ensure consistent and accurate mathematical results. This skill is crucial for future mathematical concepts and problem-solving abilities.
Parentheses/Brackets – First Step
Within the PEMDAS framework, Parentheses (or Brackets) take absolute precedence. This means any operation enclosed within parentheses must be simplified before addressing anything else. Grade 6 worksheets heavily emphasize this, often presenting expressions like “10 x 2 + 6 ÷ 8” and challenging students to strategically insert brackets to alter the outcome.
For example, question 4 from Key Stage 2, Year 6 practice materials asks students to insert brackets into expressions like “10 x 2 + 6 ÷ 8” to achieve a correct answer. This isn’t simply about following a rule; it’s about understanding how grouping symbols dictate the order of calculations.
BigIdeasMath.com’s resources (page 6, section 1.2) provide ample practice with this concept, building a solid foundation for more complex mathematical operations. Mastering parentheses is the crucial first step in confidently navigating the order of operations.
Exponents – Second Step
Following the simplification of expressions within Parentheses/Brackets, the next priority in PEMDAS is tackling Exponents. While Grade 6 worksheets may not feature exceedingly complex exponents, understanding their role is fundamental. This step involves calculating any numbers raised to a power – for instance, 23 (which equals 8).
Though the provided internet snippets don’t explicitly detail exponent-focused problems on these worksheets, the principle remains vital. Students must recognize that exponents represent repeated multiplication and take precedence over multiplication and division.
BigIdeasMath.com resources (page 6, section 1.2) likely integrate exponents into combined operations, requiring students to correctly identify and resolve them as the second step. Consistent practice with PEMDAS ensures students internalize this order, preventing errors in more advanced mathematical contexts. A firm grasp of exponents is crucial for future success.
Multiplication and Division – Third & Fourth Steps (Left to Right)
After addressing Parentheses/Brackets and Exponents, the next stage in PEMDAS involves Multiplication and Division. Critically, these operations hold equal priority. When both appear in the same expression, students must resolve them from left to right, mirroring how we read. This is a common area for errors, emphasizing the importance of strict adherence to the order.
Grade 6 worksheets, including those found on BigIdeasMath.com (page 6, section 1.2), will present problems combining multiplication and division alongside other operations. The provided snippets highlight practice with these operations within the broader context of order of operations.
Key Stage 2, Year 6 content practice questions will also assess this skill. Students must accurately perform each operation in the correct sequence, demonstrating a solid understanding of PEMDAS. Mastering this step is essential for accurate calculations.
Addition and Subtraction – Fifth & Sixth Steps (Left to Right)
Following Multiplication and Division, Addition and Subtraction constitute the final stages of PEMDAS. Similar to the previous step, these operations share equal precedence. Therefore, when an expression includes both, they must be executed from left to right, maintaining the flow of calculation. This reinforces the importance of sequential processing in mathematical expressions.

Grade 6 worksheets, including resources from BigIdeasMath.com (page 6, section 1.2), will incorporate problems requiring students to apply addition and subtraction after completing earlier steps. These exercises build upon prior skills, demanding a comprehensive understanding of the entire order of operations.
Content practice questions for Key Stage 2, Year 6, will also evaluate proficiency in this area. Accurate completion necessitates careful attention to the established order, ensuring correct results.

Order of Operations Worksheets for Grade 6
Grade 6 worksheets reinforce PEMDAS application, offering varied problems. Resources like BigIdeasMath.com (page 6, section 1.2) provide practice in PDF format.
Finding Free Printable Worksheets (PDF Format)
Locating free, printable order of operations worksheets in PDF format for Grade 6 students is readily achievable through several online educational resources. BigIdeasMath.com stands out as a valuable platform, offering dedicated materials specifically designed to support section 1.2 and found on page 6 of their curriculum. These resources are crafted to align with key learning objectives, ensuring students gain proficiency in applying the PEMDAS rule.
Beyond BigIdeasMath.com, a simple internet search using keywords like “Grade 6 order of operations worksheet PDF” will yield numerous options from various educational websites. Many teachers and educational content creators generously share their materials online, providing a wealth of practice opportunities. When selecting worksheets, consider the variety of problems offered, ensuring they cover a range of difficulty levels to cater to diverse learning needs. Always preview the worksheet to confirm it aligns with the specific concepts being taught.
Remember to check for answer keys to facilitate self-assessment and independent learning.
BigIdeasMath.com Resources – Page 6 & Section 1.2
BigIdeasMath.com provides dedicated resources for mastering the order of operations, specifically within their Grade 6 curriculum, Section 1.2. Page 6 of this section focuses intently on developing student understanding and application of the PEMDAS acronym – Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication and Division, Addition and Subtraction. The platform offers a blend of review, practice, and independent exercises designed to reinforce these crucial mathematical concepts.
Students can access “HELP” features directly on the website to guide them through challenging problems, fostering a supportive learning environment. The materials include a variety of problem types, allowing students to build confidence and fluency. The website’s interactive format complements the printable worksheets, offering a dynamic learning experience.
Teachers can also leverage BigIdeasMath.com for assessment tools and progress monitoring, ensuring students are meeting learning objectives related to the order of operations.
Worksheet Content Overview
Grade 6 order of operations worksheets, often in PDF format, systematically build student proficiency with PEMDAS. Initial exercises focus on simple arithmetic problems, gradually increasing in complexity to incorporate multiple operations. A core component involves problems specifically designed to reinforce the correct sequence – parentheses/brackets first, followed by exponents, then multiplication and division (from left to right), and finally addition and subtraction (also left to right).
Worksheets commonly include a mix of numerical expressions requiring students to apply the rules. Many resources emphasize the importance of showing work to track each step and minimize errors. The content aims to develop both computational skills and a conceptual understanding of why the order of operations is essential for accurate results.
These worksheets provide ample practice opportunities for students to solidify their grasp of this fundamental mathematical principle.

Types of Problems on Grade 6 Worksheets

Grade 6 worksheets present diverse problems: simple arithmetic, those with parentheses/brackets, multiplication/division focused questions, and addition/subtraction challenges—all utilizing PEMDAS.
Simple Arithmetic with PEMDAS
Grade 6 students begin with foundational problems designed to reinforce the PEMDAS rule through basic arithmetic. These exercises typically involve a straightforward sequence of operations – addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division – presented in a linear fashion. The initial focus is on correctly identifying the order in which these operations must be performed to arrive at the accurate solution.
Worksheets often include examples like 2 + 3 x 4, where students must multiply before adding, resulting in 14, not 20. These problems serve as building blocks, gradually increasing in complexity as students gain confidence. The goal is to solidify the understanding that PEMDAS isn’t merely a memorization task, but a fundamental principle governing mathematical accuracy.
These introductory problems help students avoid common errors and establish a strong base for tackling more intricate expressions later on, ensuring a solid grasp of the order of operations.
Problems with Parentheses/Brackets
Grade 6 worksheets significantly increase complexity by introducing parentheses (or brackets) into arithmetic expressions. These symbols dictate priority; operations within the parentheses must be completed first, regardless of the PEMDAS order. This introduces a crucial layer of problem-solving, demanding students carefully dissect each equation.
Example problems include 5 x (2 + 3), requiring students to solve 2 + 3 = 5 before multiplying by 5, resulting in 25. Worksheets often present variations like (10 ー 4) ÷ 2, testing the ability to handle subtraction and division within brackets.
Furthermore, exercises like inserting brackets to achieve a specific answer – such as 10 x 2 + 6 = 80 by adding brackets (10 x (2 + 6)) – challenge students’ understanding. Mastering parentheses is vital, as they are foundational for more advanced algebraic concepts.
Problems with Multiplication and Division
Grade 6 order of operations worksheets heavily feature problems combining multiplication and division, emphasizing that these operations hold equal precedence. Students must solve these from left to right, a common point of confusion. Examples include 12 ÷ 3 x 2, where division is performed first (12 ÷ 3 = 4), followed by multiplication (4 x 2 = 8).
Worksheets present variations like 5 x 6 ÷ 2 x 3, requiring careful sequential execution. These problems often incorporate larger numbers to increase the challenge. A key skill is recognizing when to multiply or divide based on their position within the equation.
Some exercises may include missing numbers, prompting students to apply their understanding of multiplication and division to maintain the correct order. Mastering this step is crucial before tackling addition and subtraction, ensuring accurate results.
Problems with Addition and Subtraction
Grade 6 order of operations worksheets conclude with problems focused on addition and subtraction, the final steps in PEMDAS. Like multiplication and division, these are performed from left to right when appearing at the same precedence level. Examples include 10 ー 4 + 2, solved as (10 ─ 4 = 6), then (6 + 2 = 8).

Worksheets often combine all four operations – parentheses, exponents (though less common in introductory worksheets), multiplication, division, addition, and subtraction – requiring students to apply the entire order correctly. Variations like 15 + 5 ー 8 + 3 test sequential execution.
Exercises may present more complex scenarios with larger numbers and multiple operations, demanding careful attention to detail. Some worksheets include missing numbers, challenging students to determine the correct values to maintain equation balance and adhere to PEMDAS rules.

Practice and Application
Grade 6 worksheets enhance learning through bracket insertion exercises, missing operation sign challenges, and independent practice. These activities solidify PEMDAS understanding and skill.
Inserting Brackets to Achieve Correct Answers (Example Questions)
Mastering the order of operations often requires strategic bracket placement. Worksheets frequently present problems where students must insert parentheses or brackets to achieve a specific, correct answer. For example, consider the expression 10 x 2 + 6 ÷ 80. Without brackets, the result differs significantly from the intended outcome.
Let’s examine example questions: (a) 10 x 2 + 6 ÷ 80 – by adding brackets as (10 x 2 + 6) ÷ 80, the calculation changes, yielding the correct result. (b) 5 + 5 + 5 x 2 – inserting brackets as 5 + (5 + 5 x 2) alters the order. (c) 18 + 6 x 2 ÷ 6 – brackets like (18 + 6) x 2 ÷ 6 demonstrate the impact of grouping.
These exercises aren’t about simply following PEMDAS; they’re about understanding how brackets control the order, forcing specific calculations to occur first. This skill is crucial for building a robust understanding of mathematical expressions;
Missing Operation Signs – Filling in the Blanks
A common worksheet exercise challenges students to determine the correct operation signs (+, -, ×, ÷) within an equation. These problems assess not only understanding of PEMDAS but also number sense and logical reasoning. For instance, a question might present: (5.6. 1.4) ? 2, requiring students to insert the appropriate sign to achieve a true statement.
This isn’t simply about finding an answer; it’s about finding the correct answer, dictated by the order of operations. Students must consider how each operation impacts the overall result. Worksheets often include multiple possible solutions, demanding careful evaluation.
These “fill-in-the-blank” problems reinforce the importance of each operation’s precedence. They encourage students to mentally “test” different combinations, solidifying their grasp of PEMDAS and building confidence in their arithmetic skills. This type of practice is vital for developing mathematical fluency.
Independent Practice Exercises
Grade 6 order of operations worksheets culminate in independent practice exercises, designed to assess a student’s complete understanding. These sections move beyond guided examples, presenting a series of problems requiring self-application of the PEMDAS rule. Worksheets often include a mix of problem types – simple arithmetic, those with parentheses, and combinations of multiplication, division, addition, and subtraction.
The goal is to foster confident problem-solving. Students are expected to analyze each expression, correctly identify the order of operations, and execute the calculations accurately; These exercises build crucial skills for future mathematical concepts.
BigIdeasMath.com’s section 1.2 practice provides excellent examples of this independent work. These exercises are often structured to increase in complexity, allowing students to progressively challenge themselves and solidify their mastery of the order of operations.

Answer Keys and Solutions
Answer keys are vital for self-assessment and verifying solutions to Grade 6 order of operations worksheets.
Resources like Key Stage 2 Year 6 provide these,
along with online solutions for practice problems.
Importance of Checking Answers
Checking answers is a crucial step in mastering the order of operations, especially when working with Grade 6 worksheets. It reinforces understanding and identifies potential errors in applying the PEMDAS rule – Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication and Division (from left to right), and Addition and Subtraction (from left to right).
Simply obtaining an answer isn’t enough; students must verify its accuracy. This process encourages a deeper engagement with the mathematical concepts and builds confidence. By meticulously reviewing each step, learners can pinpoint where mistakes occurred, whether it’s an incorrect order of operations or a simple calculation error.
Utilizing available answer sheets, like those for Key Stage 2 Year 6 content practice questions, allows for immediate feedback. Comparing one’s work to the correct solutions provides valuable learning opportunities and solidifies the understanding of mathematical principles. Consistent answer checking transforms practice into a powerful learning tool.
Accessing Answer Sheets (Key Stage 2, Year 6)
Answer sheets for Grade 6 order of operations worksheets, particularly those aligned with Key Stage 2 (Year 6) curricula, are readily available to support student learning and self-assessment. These resources are invaluable for verifying solutions and identifying areas needing further practice.
Many online educational platforms and websites offering printable PDF worksheets also provide corresponding answer keys. Specifically, resources related to content practice questions for Year 6 often include detailed solutions. Teachers and parents can utilize these to assess student understanding and provide targeted feedback.
Furthermore, exploring educational websites and searching for “Key Stage 2 Year 6 Maths Answer Sheets” will yield numerous options. These sheets typically mirror the worksheet format, allowing for easy comparison and error identification. Consistent access to answer sheets empowers students to take ownership of their learning and build mathematical proficiency.
Utilizing Online Resources for Solutions
Numerous online resources offer solutions and step-by-step explanations for Grade 6 order of operations problems, complementing PDF worksheets. Websites like BigIdeasMath.com, specifically referencing section 1.2, provide “HELP” features to guide students through exercises. These interactive tools can be incredibly beneficial for understanding the PEMDAS rule and applying it correctly.
Beyond platform-specific aids, several educational websites and YouTube channels dedicate content to simplifying mathematical concepts. Searching for “order of operations tutorial Grade 6” yields video explanations and worked examples. These visual aids cater to diverse learning styles and reinforce understanding.
Moreover, online calculators with step-by-step functionality can verify answers and demonstrate the correct sequence of operations. However, it’s crucial to emphasize that these tools should be used for checking work, not replacing the learning process. Utilizing these resources fosters independent problem-solving skills.