P
E
MD
AS
STORY
Write your own PEMDAS story.
1a. Create an expression using the following elements:
Addition
Subtraction
Multiplication
Division
At least one set of parentheses
At least one exponent
One negative integer (optional)
One fraction (optional)
Example: (
)
1b. Simplify your expression. Show in order all the steps you used to simplify.
Example:
(
)
(
(
)
)
Write your PEMDAS story. Your story must follow the order of operations as it applies to your expression. You will
translate each operation into a real-world situation.
Notice that in the example above, two to the third power (
follows:
) is simplified first. A translation of
could be as
Two geese started flying south; after the first mile, they found that their flock had doubled. By the second mile, the
new flock of four had doubled. Now they were a flock of eight.
3. The title should be, or include, the expression on which your story is based.
Due Dates of your PEMDAS Story
Date
Task
_________
An original expression, simplified, with all your work shown
_________
First draft of your PEMDAS story, with title
(To be proofread in class)
_________
Second draft of your PEMDAS story
(Handed in with first draft and proofreading comments)
_________
Final draft
1. Must include all previous drafts and comments
2. Must address any notes and comments made by the proofreader(s) and teacher.
Assessment Outline
Points
Task
4
Simplifying the expression
1. Clear, organized presentation of steps
5
The Story
1. Follows the expression in a clear manner
2. Has a beginning, middle, and an end
4
The Final Story Submitted
1. Addresses any necessary comments made by proofreader(s) and teacher
2. Free of mathematical errors
3
Effort
1. Tasks accomplished and handed in on time
2. General appearance of work
3. Presentation (optional)
4. Difficulty level of expression
5. Development of story line
Proofreading Worksheet
This worksheet will help you and your partner(s) create a better PEMDAS story. Exchange PEMDAS stories with a
partner, read your partner’s story, and fill in this worksheet.
Name of Author: ________________________________________________________________________________
Name of Proofreader: ____________________________________________________________________________
Story Title: _____________________________________________________________________________________
What is the expression of this story?: _______________________________________________________________
On the back of this page, simplify the expression to check your partner’s work. Show all your work.
Does the story follow the expression and the order of operations?
[ ] yes
[ ] no
If no, please explain the difficulties. Be clear and specific.
Please explain the following:
1. What do you think is the best part of the story?
2. What would you change about the story to make it better?