It is important for the algebra learner to understand the use of parentheses. Mathematicians of all levels can make errors with nested parentheses. This will give them some practice. It makes for a good class starter or quick assessment.

Parentheses are an important tool in the algebraic toolbox in regard to the structure of the algebraic equation. They are the beginning of the standard order of operations rule, the P in PEMDAS. The central question...

Eric and Leila's video game scores are the inspiration for writing equations with parenthesis. The numbers are purposefully large to deter the class from calculating them: rather this activity meets the standard that asks 5th graders to...

When do teams want a strike? When they are playing this fun math game modeled after bowling. First, class teams roll four dice to generate the numbers they will use in that round, called a frame, of the game. Next, pins numbered 1...

Straight to the point, learners are asked to compare a set of five expressions, determine which are equivalent, and then write equivalent equations for those that do not have any. A benefit is that they will review using properties...

Can you add variables if you don't know their value? Using an empty number line, scholars first locate the position of the difference, sum, product, and quotient of two unknown integers. Later problems mix operations as well as add...

While this activity is centered around expressions that represent the perimeter of a rectangle, it also hits at the fundamental concept of equivalent expressions, simplifing expressions, and like-terms. Classmates express their...

Learners write an example to show a function statement true and another to show it false in this short task that addresses some common student misconceptions. 

Designed as a follow-up to the lesson plan titled Watch Out for Parenthesis 1, this activity asks young learners to write an equation for the calculation described with words rather than numbers and symbols. The treasure that 5th...

Here is a site that clearly and thoroughly explains removing grouping symbols like parentheses, braces, and brackets. There are example problems solved, problems for the student to attempt, and answers to the student problems. Point this...

College professor Dan Bach offers a review of various basic topics in arithmetic, pre-algebra, and algebra. Order of operations, exponents, square roots, variables, and combining terms are just a few of the many topics covered.

Here is a site that clearly and thoroughly explains adding like terms, including terms with signs and terms within parentheses. There are example problems solved, problems for the student to attempt, and answers to the student problems....

In Spanish. In this activity you will learn how to use parentheses in arithmetic operations. Also practice arithmetic playing with three dice.

BBC Schools offers a test review ("revision") of several aspects of solving equations. Content includes solving simple equations, solving equations with brackets, simplifying letters in equations, plus much more. After working through...