Grade 4 Order of Operations Lesson Plan

PE Centers: Order of Operations Relay

Order of Operations | Centers

Grade 4 Physical Education Order of Operations Centers Advanced Professional 9 Views
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PE Centers: Order of Operations Relay
Professional Lesson Plan

PE Centers: Order of Operations Relay

Order of Operations | Centers

GradeGrade 4
SubjectPhysical Education
TopicOrder of Operations
Duration45 Minutes
Lesson TypeCenters
DifficultyAdvanced

Lesson Overview

Students rotate through active centers that practice the order of operations in a movement-based, collaborative format. Each center uses simple equations tied to physical tasks so students solve problems, follow the correct sequence, and complete the movement challenge.

Learning Objectives

  • Solve multi-step order of operations problems with whole numbers and parentheses.
  • Apply the correct sequence of operations in a game and movement setting.
  • Work with a partner or small group to check answers and explain thinking.
  • Demonstrate accuracy and teamwork while completing center tasks.

Materials Needed

  • Task cards with order of operations problems
  • Pencils and recording sheets
  • Center signs
  • Number cards 0-9
  • Operation cards (+, -, x, ÷, parentheses)
  • Cones or floor markers
  • Stopwatch or timer
  • Clipboards
  • Small balls or beanbags
  • Answer key for teacher

Vocabulary

TermDefinition
Order of OperationsThe rules for solving a math expression in the correct order.
ParenthesesSymbols that tell you to solve the numbers inside them first.
MultiplyTo make equal groups or repeated addition.
DivideTo split into equal parts or groups.
ExpressionA math problem with numbers and operations, but no equal sign.

Lesson Sequence

Warm-Up and Directions5 minutes
Teacher Actions

Model one sample problem and show how each center works. Review the order: parentheses, multiply/divide, add/subtract.

Student Actions

Listen, ask questions, and complete the sample with the class.

Center 1: Move and Solve8 minutes
Teacher Actions

Set up a cone path with task cards. Read each problem aloud as needed and monitor accuracy.

Student Actions

Solve a card, then complete the matching movement task after the correct answer is checked.

Center 2: Number Line Relay8 minutes
Teacher Actions

Place number cards and operation cards in order for students to build expressions. Prompt students to explain their steps.

Student Actions

Create the expression, solve it in order, and run the answer to the checkpoint.

Center 3: Throw, Solve, and Share8 minutes
Teacher Actions

Provide beanbags and target spots labeled with answers. Circulate to support and challenge students to justify choices.

Student Actions

Solve the problem, toss to the correct answer target, and explain the process to a partner.

Center 4: Team Challenge Circuit8 minutes
Teacher Actions

Assign groups to complete a short sequence of problems that increase in difficulty. Check for correct order and teamwork.

Student Actions

Work together to solve all cards and complete the movement station after each correct answer.

Wrap-Up and Rotate Back8 minutes
Teacher Actions

Bring students together, review one tricky problem, and highlight strategies used across centers.

Student Actions

Share one strategy or one problem solved correctly, then clean up materials.

Support

  • Provide a simplified problem set with fewer steps.
  • Use visual order-of-operations reminder cards at every center.
  • Allow a peer helper or teacher check before moving to the next task.
  • Use larger-print cards and fewer choices at target stations.
  • Preteach key vocabulary with gestures and examples.

Challenge

  • Include problems with two sets of parentheses.
  • Add one step where students create their own expression for another group to solve.
  • Require students to explain why multiplication or division was done before addition or subtraction.
  • Use missing-number problems with a blank in the expression.

Checks for Understanding

  • Observe whether students solve in the correct order at each center.
  • Ask students to explain which operation came first and why.
  • Use quick verbal checks after each rotation.
  • Review recording sheets for accuracy and correct sequencing.

Closure

Students gather for a brief share-out on what helped them solve expressions correctly. End by restating the order of operations and praising effort, teamwork, and precision.

Homework

Complete a short order of operations practice sheet with 5 problems and write one sentence explaining the steps for one problem.

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