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Learn: Mastering the Order of Operations (BIDMAS/BODMAS)
iGCSE Mathematics
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Welcome!Welcome to your lesson on mastering the Order of Operations! You've already learned about essential mathematical symbols and operations, and now we'll build on that foundation to understand how to solve calculations step by step using BIDMAS/BODMAS.
What is BIDMAS/BODMAS?BIDMAS (or BODMAS) is an acronym that helps us remember the correct order of operations when solving mathematical problems. It ensures calculations are solved in the correct sequence to avoid errors.The letters stand for: Brackets, Indices, Division, Multiplication, Addition, Subtraction. These steps are followed in order when solving expressions.
Why is BIDMAS/BODMAS important?When solving a mathematical problem, there can be multiple operations involved, such as addition, multiplication, or brackets. If we don't follow the correct order, we may end up with the wrong answer. BIDMAS ensures everyone follows the same rules to get consistent results.
Breaking Down BIDMASLet’s look at each part of BIDMAS:Brackets: Solve any calculations inside brackets first.Indices: Solve powers or roots next.Division and Multiplication: Work from left to right. Perform these operations after brackets and indices.Addition and Subtraction: Handle these last, working from left to right.
Which operation should you solve first in the expression: (3 + 5) × 2?
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Division and MultiplicationWhen you encounter both division (÷) and multiplication (×) in a problem, solve them in the order they appear, from left to right. These operations have the same precedence level.
Which of the following statements are correct about Division and Multiplication? (Select all that apply)
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Addition and SubtractionLike division and multiplication, you solve addition (+) and subtraction (−) from left to right. They are the last operations to solve after brackets, indices, division, and multiplication.
In the expression 15 − 3 + 4, what operation should be solved first?
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Putting It All TogetherLet’s see how BIDMAS is applied in a complete calculation. For example, in the expression 5 × (2 + 3) − 4, we follow these steps:Solve the brackets first: 2 + 3 = 5Multiply: 5 × 5 = 25Subtract: 25 − 4 = 21The answer is 21.
Match the items on the left with their correct pairs on the right
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Review Time!Well done! You've learned how to use BIDMAS/BODMAS to solve problems step by step. Let’s test your understanding with a few final questions.
Match the items on the left with their correct pairs on the right
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Which operations do you solve before addition? (Select all that apply)
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Match the items on the left with their correct pairs on the right
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What is the first step in solving 8 − 3 × (6 ÷ 2)?
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Great Work!Fantastic job completing the lesson on BIDMAS/BODMAS. Keep practising, and you'll master the order of operations in no time!
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