Order of operations is one of the most important skills in Grade 4 math because it tells students which step to do first when an expression has more than one operation. In Grade 4, students learn the mnemonic PEMDAS, which stands for Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication, Division, Addition, and Subtraction. Without this rule, the same problem could give different answers depending on who solves it. Grade 4 students start with simple two-operation expressions, like 5 + 3 x 2, where multiplication must happen before addition. Then they learn how parentheses can change the order, so (5 + 3) x 2 gives a different result than 5 + 3 x 2. As confidence grows, Grade 4 students work with three-operation expressions and word problems that require choosing the correct expression with parentheses. Mastering order of operations in Grade 4 prepares students for fractions, decimals, exponents, and algebra in later grades, where following the proper order becomes even more critical for accuracy.
Worksheet Preview
Browse all 12 printable worksheets below — click any card to open the full page.
Order of Operations Introduction
Order of Operations Introduction
Order of Operations Introduction
Order of Operations Introduction
Order of Operations Introduction
Order of Operations Introduction
Order of Operations Introduction
Order of Operations Introduction
Order of Operations Introduction
Order of Operations Introduction
Order of Operations Introduction
Order of Operations Introduction
What's Included in This Download
What You'll Learn
These order of operations introduction worksheets help grade 4 students develop essential math skills through engaging activities.
How to Use These Worksheets
- Download & Print: Click the download button to get the PDF. Print on standard 8.5" x 11" paper.
- Start Simple: Begin with easier pages before moving to more challenging activities.
- Daily Practice: Dedicate 10-15 minutes each day for consistent learning.
- Use Manipulatives: Pair worksheets with physical objects like blocks or counters.
- Provide Encouragement: Celebrate progress and effort to build confidence.
- Check Progress: Use the included answer key to review work together.
Common Mistakes to Watch For
- Working strictly left to right and adding before multiplying, such as solving 4 + 2 x 3 as 6 x 3 = 18 instead of the correct answer of 10.
- Ignoring parentheses or treating them like extra decoration, missing that (5 + 3) x 2 must be solved inside the parentheses first before multiplying.
- Confusing the rank of addition and subtraction; students sometimes always add before subtracting instead of working left to right when both appear together.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does PEMDAS mean in Grade 4 math?
PEMDAS stands for Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication, Division, Addition, and Subtraction. It is the order students follow when solving expressions with more than one operation.
Why is 5 + 3 x 2 equal to 11 and not 16?
Because multiplication comes before addition in PEMDAS. We multiply 3 x 2 = 6 first, then add 5 to get 11. To get 16, you would need parentheses: (5 + 3) x 2.
Do I always work left to right?
Only when operations are at the same rank, like addition and subtraction together, or multiplication and division together. Otherwise, follow PEMDAS to choose which step comes first.
How do parentheses change the answer?
Parentheses tell you to solve what is inside first, even if it is addition or subtraction. They override the normal PEMDAS order, which can lead to a very different final result.
Are exponents covered in Grade 4 order of operations?
Most Grade 4 standards focus on parentheses, multiplication, division, addition, and subtraction. Exponents are introduced more deeply in Grade 5, but PEMDAS is still the helpful framework.
Are these worksheets really free?
Yes! All our worksheets are 100% free to download and print. There's no subscription, no hidden fees, and no registration required.
Can I use these in my classroom?
Absolutely! Teachers are welcome to print and use these worksheets in their classrooms. Make as many copies as needed for your students.