ORDER OF OPERATIONS Challenge

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What is the objective of the game?

The Order of Operations Test game is a fast-paced math activity focused on solving expressions combining addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division following the correct order of operations. Players must evaluate each math problem, account for grouping symbols like parentheses, and select the correct answer from 4 multiple-choice options before time runs out, while managing 3 lives or allowed mistakes across 4 difficulty levels.

Recommended age and educational level

This game is recommended for children aged 10 and up (5th and 6th Grade, Middle School, High School, and Adults). At this stage, students have mastered basic arithmetic operations and are introducing or reinforcing formal order of operations (PEMDAS/BODMAS) rules. Prior math knowledge is required, specifically multiplication tables, division, and operational priority rules (parentheses first, multiplication/division left-to-right, then addition/subtraction). It serves as an excellent tool for students mastering mental math, as well as for teachers, parents, and adults looking to sharpen cognitive agility, working memory, and quick numerical processing.

How to play: single-player or multiplayer

The primary format is single-player, as it demands individual focus and speed against a countdown timer (ranging from 30 seconds on the easy level to 90 seconds on the expert level). However, it easily adapts into a collaborative classroom activity where students solve expressions on an interactive board together or compete for the highest score on the hardest levels.

What do you learn from this game? Skills and learning outcomes

• Mathematics and Order of Operations: Applying PEMDAS/BODMAS rules to multi-step arithmetic expressions with and without parentheses.
• Mental Math and Speed Fluency: Automating basic calculations accurately under time constraints.
• Working Memory and Logical Reasoning: Breaking complex multi-operation problems into structured, sequential steps.
• Time Management and Focus: Balancing quick decision-making with precision to avoid losing all 3 lives.

Tips to get the most out of this game

To apply these concepts in an unplugged offline activity, challenge students to write a multi-operation equation on paper without any parentheses. Ask them to place parentheses in different spots to achieve specific target numbers, or have them write a real-world word problem that matches one of the expressions generated by the game.