Pumpkin Problems : Numerical Expressions

Lesson Overview

The students will be able to evaluate numerical expressions involving grouping symbols. In this fall-themed lesson, students will use engaging materials such as pumpkin cutouts, dry-erase boards, and markers. Students will use the acronym of teacher’s choice (PEMDAS) to solve problems as a small group. They will break apart the problem and write answers (steps to solving expressions) on pumpkins, put steps together, and come to a final answer as a group. They will record their answer on a whiteboard and share with the class at the end of the lesson. This is a whole group and small group lesson involving student-lead presentations that allow for academic feedback from the teacher. For groups who are struggling, the teacher will have a chance to pull small groups during pumpkin activity to scaffold and give the teacher a chance to record anecdotal notes for assessment purposes.