Free Printable Order of Operations (PEMDAS) Worksheets for Year 6

The PEMDAS rules do not change. However, in 6th grade, students apply these rules to more complex numbers, including fractions, decimals, and negative integers. The focus shifts from learning the order to applying it fluently with all rational numbers.

Begin by reviewing PEMDAS with whole numbers to reinforce the core rules. Then, introduce expressions where only one or two numbers are fractions or decimals. This isolates the new challenge, allowing students to focus on applying familiar rules to new number types without being overwhelmed.

Practice problems should include a mix of number types within the same expression: whole numbers, decimals, and fractions. The expressions should also involve exponents and nested parentheses to build and assess fluency in preparation for algebra.

Often, errors are not with the order of operations itself but with the fraction or decimal arithmetic. For example, a student might correctly identify that they need to add two fractions inside parentheses first but then make a mistake finding a common denominator. It's important to distinguish a PEMDAS error from a calculation error.

These worksheets are available as printable PDFs for focused, off-screen practice, and you can grade them quickly using the Wayground for Teachers app. You can also assign them as a digital activity on the Wayground platform, which provides instant feedback to students. A full answer key is included with every worksheet.

Mastering the order of operations with rational numbers is a critical pre-algebra skill aligned with Common Core standards (6.EE). It provides the procedural fluency needed to correctly evaluate algebraic expressions once variables are introduced, forming a cornerstone of success in algebra.