Hello, fourth graders! Today, we’re going to talk about a slightly tricky topic in math: mixed operations with parentheses. If you understand this well, doing calculations will become much more fun!
The Basics of Operations with Parentheses
First, let’s understand the order of operations when you have small parentheses in your calculations.
1. Order of Operations with Small Parentheses
Always start by calculating the numbers inside the small parentheses first. Inside the parentheses, do multiplication and division before addition and subtraction!
2. Order of Operations with Medium Parentheses
If your math problem includes both small and medium parentheses, start with the small parentheses, then move to the medium parentheses, and finally, handle the numbers outside the parentheses. For example, if there are multiple steps inside the small parentheses, always do multiplication and division first, and then addition and subtraction in order.
Knowing this rule will help you make fewer mistakes in your calculations!
Practical Calculation Methods
Next, let’s practice some real calculations with parentheses. Follow the order of operations, and even the most challenging problems will be a breeze!
Example
3+(2×4)−5
First, calculate inside the small parentheses:
2×4=8
Then, handle the outside:
3+8−5=6
See? Easy, right?
Challenge Yourself with Advanced Problems!
Let’s try a more challenging problem with multiple parentheses. Just follow the order, and you’ll be fine.
Example
5+[(2+3)×2]
First, calculate inside the small parentheses:
2+3=5
Next, handle the medium parentheses:
5×2=10
Finally, calculate the outside:
5+10=15
Conclusion
Remember the rules for mixed operations with parentheses, and you’ll find that no calculation is too difficult! Keep practicing, and you’ll master the order of operations and calculation tips in no time. Keep up the good work!

我本業其實是做日文翻譯、攝影、還有設計,這三樣加起來,離數學差不多有一百萬公里遠。本來以為這輩子都不會再被 x、y、指數、小括號纏住。結果女兒一入學,家中最高領導人一聲令下:「數學交給你了。」
我當場愣住,心想我以前看到代數都頭痛,現在竟然要主管全家的算式業務?每天還要追蹤進度、檢查功課、臨場講解,完全比我接案子還拼命。
既然跑不掉,那乾脆把平日教女兒時累積的一堆小抄、筆記全整理起來。反正我自己要用,順便讓世上其他同樣被指派「數學專員」的苦主也能受惠。能救一個是一個,能救全家更好。

