Simplifying Expressions with GEMA / BEDMAS

Task goals

• Evaluate a numeric expression involving addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and brackets by applying the correct order of operations.
• Decide which of two possible evaluations of an expression is correct, and explain why the order of operations matters, such as why 2+3x4 does not equal (2+3)x4.
• Evaluate a numeric expression that also includes exponents, applying the order of operations.
• Substitute given numeric values into an algebraic expression and simplify it using the correct order of operations, including expressions with brackets and exponents.
• Insert brackets into a given expression, or complete a missing number, so that the expression evaluates to a stated target value.
• Identify and explain the error in an incorrect application of the order of operations, including comparing two students' differing answers to decide who is correct.
• Solve for an unknown value in an equation that requires applying the order of operations to both sides.
• Create an original expression from given numbers that evaluates to a target value, using the order of operations.