13 + (12 + 8) = ?
This equation contains a pair of round brackets (), called parentheses.
Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Parentheses ( ) tell you what to solve first.
Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Always solve, or simplify, the things inside parentheses first.
Parentheses are very important because they can change the answer.
Let's see how.
27 - 10 + 7 = ?
If we put parenthesis around the first two numbers, what answer do we get?
(27 - 10) + 7 = ?
First, we solve the expression inside the parenthesis.
Tip: Rewrite the equation after each time you simplify.
17 + 7 = 24
Great job!
Now, let's try putting parentheses around the last two numbers, instead of the first two.
27 - (10 + 7) = ?
When we solve this equation, do we get the same value?
27 - 17 = 10
The answer changed from 24 to 10!
Adding parentheses changed the answer. That's the power of parentheses.
Let's solve some equations with parentheses together.
14 + (19 - 13) = ?
In this equation, which operation should you solve first - the addition or the subtraction?
That's right! š
Since the subtraction is inside parentheses, we must solve it first. ā Ā
14 + (19 - 13) = 14 + 6
Now, let's add the two numbers left.
14 + 6 = 20
Great job! š
(30 - 20) + (9 + 6) - 3 = ?
Which parts of the equation will you solve first? š¤
Very good.
Solve the parts inside the parentheses first.
Now, let's solve the other parentheses.
Let's now solve the rest of the equation.
10 + 15 - 3 =
25 - 3 =
22
Awesome.
Tip: If there are two sets of parenthesis on the same level, solve the left one first.
You did great on the lesson. šĀ
Now, try the practice to master parentheses on your own.