When there are several operations in a number sentence (or expression) then there are certain rules that have to apply to ensure that everyone achieves the same correct answer. For example: 2 + 3 x 4 = This could be done in the order shown i.e. 2 + 3 = 5, 5 x 4 = 20 or: 3 x 4 = 12, add 2 to make 14. It is also interesting to note that different calculators come up with different answers. Some will give 20, but most will show 14. Why? Because rules have been applied as follows: 1. First do the operations that are in brackets. 2. Then do any divisions. 3. Thirdly do any multiplications. 4. lastly do any additions and subtractions. This is known as BODMAS (The o stands for 'of'.) and it means that if you have an expression with addition and multiplication in, then the multiplication should be done first, irrespective of the order it has been written out. These two pages give some practice at this, although children will come across this much more at High Schools in years 7 and 8. They can be found in the Year 6 Understanding Number category.