3rd Grade Order of Operations (PEMDAS) Quizzes

In 3rd grade, students are introduced to the foundational concepts that precede formal PEMDAS. The focus is on solving two-step word problems using the four basic operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division), which builds an intuitive understanding of why sequence matters.

Use simple, relatable two-step word problems. For example: "I had 10 cookies and ate 2. Then my friend gave me 5 more. How many do I have now?" This helps students see how a sequence of operations (10 - 2 + 5) represents a real-world story, laying the groundwork for more abstract expressions.

The best problems for this level involve two steps with the four basic operations and no exponents or parentheses. For example, expressions like `3 × 4 + 5` or `15 - 10 ÷ 2`. The goal is to build fluency with multiplication/division before addition/subtraction.

Third graders often want to solve any expression strictly from left to right, regardless of the operations involved. They may struggle to understand why multiplication should be done before addition in an expression without parentheses. Connecting expressions back to word problems can help clarify the logic.

These quizzes are available as printable PDFs, perfect for hands-on practice that can help reduce screen time. They can also be assigned as a digital activity on Wayground for in-class or remote learning. Every quiz includes a complete answer key for efficient grading.

In line with Common Core (3.OA.D.8), 3rd graders learn to solve two-step word problems using the four operations. These quizzes provide practice with the numerical expressions that model those problems, building a critical foundation for the formal rules of order of operations they will learn in later grades.