Introduction
In mathematics, the acronym PEMDAS is often used to remember the order of operations: Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication and Division (from left to right), and Addition and Subtraction (from left to right). However, students are also taught the phrase "Please Excuse My Dear Aunt Sally" to help them remember the order of these operations. This mnemonic device has been used for decades and continues to be a helpful tool for students of all ages.
The Origins of the Phrase
The phrase "Please Excuse My Dear Aunt Sally" was first popularized in the United States in the 1960s. It was commonly used by math teachers to help students remember the correct order of operations. The phrase has since become a staple in math classrooms across the country and has even made its way into popular culture.
What Does It Mean?
The phrase "Please Excuse My Dear Aunt Sally" is a way to remember the order of operations in mathematics. Each letter in the phrase represents a step in the process. "P" stands for Parentheses, "E" stands for Exponents, "M" stands for Multiplication and Division, "A" stands for Addition, and "S" stands for Subtraction.
Using the Mnemonic Device
When solving math problems, students can use the phrase "Please Excuse My Dear Aunt Sally" to ensure they are following the correct order of operations. By remembering this phrase, students can avoid making common mistakes and arrive at the correct answer.
An Example
Let's say we have the following math problem: 3 + 5 * 2. If we follow the order of operations without using the mnemonic device, we might mistakenly add 3 and 5 first, resulting in an incorrect answer of 8. However, if we use the phrase "Please Excuse My Dear Aunt Sally," we know that we need to perform the multiplication first, giving us the correct answer of 13.
Advantages of Using Mnemonic Devices
Mnemonic devices, such as "Please Excuse My Dear Aunt Sally," have several advantages for students. First, they provide a simple and easy-to-remember way to recall important information. By associating the order of operations with a familiar phrase, students are more likely to retain this information in their long-term memory.
Improving Problem-Solving Skills
In addition, using mnemonic devices can help improve problem-solving skills. By having a clear and structured method for solving math problems, students can approach complex equations with confidence. This can lead to increased accuracy and efficiency in their work.
Conclusion
The phrase "Please Excuse My Dear Aunt Sally" continues to be an effective mnemonic device for teaching the order of operations in mathematics. By using this phrase, students can confidently solve math problems and avoid common mistakes. Whether you're a student or a teacher, incorporating this mnemonic device into your math lessons can greatly enhance learning and understanding.
