Unlock the Power of TPR: A Game-Changing Strategy for Mastering Order of Operations

When children are learning any new math concept, it’s crucial to use strategies that help them retain the information efficiently. One powerful method that has transformed math instruction is Total Physical Response (TPR). This hands-on, movement-based technique accelerates learning by connecting physical actions to mental processes.

If you’ve ever tried to teach your child a math concept by simply explaining it, you may have noticed that the information often doesn’t stick. Without meaningful engagement, children can struggle to grasp essential concepts and require weeks—or even months—of repetitive drilling before they gain proficiency.

Why Does TPR Work So Well?

Research shows that children retain information far more effectively when they actively involve their bodies in the learning process. TPR is a proven technique that links movement with memory, making complex ideas easier to grasp and retain. By engaging both the mind and body, children build deeper neural connections, strengthening their ability to recall information when it matters most.

For example, if a child associates flexing their arm like a bodybuilder with solving exponents, they’ll create a memorable link that makes the concept easier to remember during future practice and tests.

Why is the Order of Operations So Confusing?

The Order of Operations is one of the most challenging concepts for children to master. Operations are the actions we perform on numbers: adding, subtracting, multiplying, dividing, etc. The confusion arises from determining which operation to perform first.

For Example:

For Example:
3 (6² + 8) – 4 x 6
What is the proper order of operation for the problem above?

Order of Operations: A Common Math Struggle

One of the most challenging concepts for students in grades 3 through 6 is the Order of Operations. This essential skill lays the groundwork for understanding algebra, problem-solving, and higher-level mathematics. Without mastering this concept, students often feel confused and frustrated, leading to a lack of confidence in their math abilities.

Understanding Order of Operations

Order of Operations refers to the correct sequence in which mathematical operations should be performed. Operations include:

• Addition
• Subtraction
• Multiplication
• Division
• Parentheses
• Exponents

Most teachers introduce this concept using the popular acronym PEMDAS:

• Parentheses
• Exponents
• Multiplication
• Division
• Addition
• Subtraction

While PEMDAS can be helpful, it often leads to common misunderstandings. For example, children may mistakenly believe that multiplication always comes before division and that addition always comes before subtraction. In reality, multiplication and division are equally strong, as are addition and subtraction. The correct rule is to move left to right when both appear in the same expression.

Examples of Common Mistakes and Correct Solutions

Clarifying Common PEMDAS Mistakes

When you encounter multiplication and division together, like (42 / 6 x 4), or addition and subtraction together, like (18 – 8 + 14),

the correct approach is to solve the problem from left to right (not based on PEMDAS order alone).

Multiplication & Division

This is wrong:	This is the correct order of operation:
42 / 6 x 4 42 / 24 1.75 WRONG!	42 / 6 x 4 7 x 4 28 CORRECT!

Addition & Subtraction

This is wrong:	This is the correct order of operation:
18 – 8 + 14 18 – 22 -4 WRONG!	18 – 8 + 14 10 + 14 24 CORRECT

The “Strongest to Weakest” TPR Strategy

Instead of relying solely on PEMDAS, I teach my students the “Strongest to Weakest” strategy. This method simplifies the process and eliminates confusion. By physically acting out each step, children create memorable mental links that make learning fun and effective.

Here’s how it works:

• Flex your arms like a bodybuilder to represent Parentheses — Point to your head to symbolize that this is the strongest operation that always comes first.
• Exponents, are stronger than multiplication and division, which means that they are second in strength.
• Place your hands side by side and wave them back and forth like a pendulum to represent Multiplication & Division, which are equally strong and must be solved from left to right.
• Finally, extend your arms weakly to your sides to symbolize the weakest of operations: Addition & Subtraction, they are done last, and when both are there they are completed solved from left to right.

This physical approach gives students an engaging way to remember the correct sequence while reinforcing muscle memory.

The video below shows an example of TPR for teaching order of operation.

 

Real-Life Case Study: How TPR Transformed Learning

In my classroom, I once worked with a fifth-grade student named Jessica who had consistently struggled with the Order of Operations. Despite multiple explanations and practice problems, Jessica remained frustrated and confused.

I introduced the “Strongest to Weakest” TPR method to her. During each lesson, she physically acted out each step — flexing her arms for parentheses, tapping her head for exponents, and waving her arms for multiplication and division. Within two weeks, Jessica’s scores jumped from 42% to 88% on her math assessments. Not only did her understanding improve, but her confidence soared as well. Jessica even began demonstrating the strategy to her classmates, which further solidified her skills.

Why TPR is Essential for Visual and Kinesthetic Learners

Many children, especially those who struggle with traditional teaching methods, thrive with visual and hands-on strategies like TPR. By physically engaging with the material, these students bridge the gap between memorization and true comprehension. This method is particularly effective for children with ADHD, dyslexia, or other learning differences.

Supporting Learning with Online Video Tutorials

To complement the TPR method, I’ve developed step-by-step video tutorials for students to follow along with. These videos allow children to practice their math skills at their own pace, pausing as needed to reinforce their understanding. Every lesson breaks down concepts with clear visuals, helping students build confidence one step at a time.

Want More Engaging Math Resources?

If your child is struggling with math, they don’t have to face it alone. TeachersDungeon offers an exciting, educational adventure game that combines learning with interactive challenges. With your membership, you’ll gain access to my entire collection of math books — packed with proven strategies like TPR — as well as engaging video tutorials and personalized progress tracking through our Stats Page.

Empower your child to excel in math while having fun along the way. Visit TeachersDungeon.com today to explore our engaging learning resources and watch your child’s math skills flourish.

Until next time… Keep learning, keep growing, and most importantly — keep believing in your child’s potential!

 

Want More Step-by-Step Tutorials?

If you’re looking for a way to help your child conquer math concepts like the order of operations, explore The Teacher’s Dungeon! Our educational platform offers:

✅ Interactive video tutorials that break down complex problems into manageable steps
✅ Engaging math challenges that turn learning into an adventure
✅ Comprehensive progress tracking so parents can see their child’s growth

Visit TeachersDungeon.com to unlock a treasure chest of math resources today!

Empower your child to build confidence and succeed in math with our proven strategies. Together, we can turn math struggles into math victories!

Until next time…
Have a great day – Brian McCoy