Practice writing and evaluating calculations that use the correct order of operations (brackets/exponents, multiplication & division, then addition & subtraction). Speed and accuracy are both practised: how many different, valid calculations can you write in the timed round, and can you evaluate them correctly when there’s no time pressure?
What you need
A printed set of number cards (from your website) — cut out.
A printed set of operation cards (+, −, ×, ÷, ^, parentheses, etc.) — cut out.
Pen or pencil and paper.
A stopwatch or timer (30 seconds recommended).
Game setup
Shuffle the number cards and place them face-down in a pile.
Shuffle the operation cards and place them face-down in a separate pile.
Decide how many number and operation cards you’ll use for this round. (Suggested starter: 4 number cards + 3 operation cards — this naturally fits a single-line expression. You can also try 3 numbers + 3 operations for a more open-ended challenge; see Variations below.)
How to play (step-by-step)
Draw cards — each player (or pair/group) draws the chosen quantity of number cards and the chosen quantity of operation cards and places them face-up so everyone can see the pool.
Set the timer for 30 seconds.
Timed challenge: During those 30 seconds, each player writes down as many different valid calculations as they can using the cards available. Rules for the timed round:
Use each selected number card at least once per calculation (recommended).
Use operation cards as needed between numbers (you don’t have to use every operation card in every calculation unless you choose the “strict” variation).
You may use parentheses to change the order of operations.
Each different expression counts once (e.g., 3 + 5 × 2 and (3 + 5) × 2 are two different calculations).
Stop the timer and compare lists. Count how many different calculations each player wrote. (Optional: award 1 point per valid calculation.)
Untimed evaluation: Choose several of the calculations (your own or each other’s) and solve them carefully using correct order of operations (brackets → exponents → × & ÷ left to right → + & − left to right). Check answers with a calculator or by working them out on paper.
Winner: Decide who “won” the round by either most valid calculations (speed prize) or by accuracy in the untimed evaluation (accuracy prize). You can play multiple rounds and keep a running score.
5 − 3 × 2 = 5 − 6 = −1 Each expression is different because parentheses or the order change the result.
Variations & adaptations
Easier (younger learners): Use only + and −, fewer cards (e.g., 3 numbers + 2 operations), and longer time (45–60s).
Standard (recommended): 4 numbers + 3 operations, 30s timer.
Challenge: 3 numbers + 3 operation cards and must use every operation at least once — allow parentheses and/or concatenation (treat two number cards side-by-side as a two-digit number) to make this possible.
Team mode: Teams take turns; during the untimed phase, teams explain their reasoning to score bonus points.
Extension: Include exponent (^) cards or fraction cards for older students.
Scoring ideas
1 point per valid, different calculation in the timed round.
+2 bonus points for each correctly evaluated calculation in the untimed phase.
Deduct 1 point for incorrect evaluations (to reinforce checking work).
Teaching tips (for adults)
Emphasise why parentheses change answers — have students explain the steps aloud.
Encourage strategy: when short on time, jot down simple combinations first (e.g., multiplication before addition).
Use sticky notes to allow students to rearrange cards physically — this helps visual learners.
Discuss common errors (ignoring multiplication before addition, incorrect left-to-right handling for × and ÷).
Educational benefits
Reinforces order of operations (PEMDAS/BODMAS) in a lively, repeatable way.
Builds mental arithmetic and quick-thinking skills.
Encourages algebraic thinking: planning expressions and using parentheses intentionally.
Promotes reasoning & explanation during the untimed evaluation phase.
