Worked Example 1
Multiplication Before Subtraction
18 − 3 × 4
- 1Multiply first: 3 × 4 = 12.
- 2Then subtract: 18 − 12 = 6.
Answer: 6
Florida Grade 5 Math · Algebraic Reasoning
MA.5.AR.2.2: Order of operations
What this Grade 5 benchmark means, worked examples, common mistakes, and a free printable worksheet.
Created by a Florida mom · Published by Tropical Learning LLC
What Is Benchmark MA.5.AR.2.2?
In Grade 5, students evaluate expressions with more than one operation using the order of operations, such as 18 − 3 × 4.
The order: first anything in parentheses, then multiplication and division from left to right, then addition and subtraction from left to right.
Official benchmarkEvaluate multi-step numerical expressions using order of operations.
On the FAST test: part of the Grade 5 reporting category Algebraic Reasoning, which is about 23–29% of the test.
Worked Examples
Worked Example 2
Parentheses First
2 × (5 + 3) ÷ 4
- 1Parentheses: 5 + 3 = 8.
- 2Then left to right: 2 × 8 = 16.
- 316 ÷ 4 = 4.
Answer: 4
Common Mistakes to Watch For
Working left to right only
Wrong:8 + 6 × 2 = 28
Multiply before adding: 6 × 2 = 12, then 8 + 12 = 20.
Doing all multiplication before all division
Wrong:24 ÷ 4 × 2 = 3
Multiplication and division go left to right: 24 ÷ 4 = 6, then 6 × 2 = 12.
Helpful Math Tip
Rewrite the expression after each step. Doing one operation at a time on a new line makes mistakes easy to spot.
Related Grade 5 Skills
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Start Practicing FreeIndependent Educational Platform. FastChomp is published by Tropical Learning LLC and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by the Florida Department of Education. FAST and Star assessment names are referenced for informational purposes only. FastChomp practice questions are original educational materials, not official Florida FAST assessment questions.