Symbol Meaning Example

Mathematical Language & Symbols + add 3 + 7 = 10

− subtract 5−2 = 3
Language - is a complex system of words and symbols, either spoken or × multiply 4 × 3 = 12
written, used by a particular community as a means of communication.
÷ divide 20 ÷ 5 = 4
Language of Mathematics / divide 20/5 = 4
() grouping 2(𝑎 − 3)
A system used by mathematicians to communicate mathematical ideas symbols
among themselves. [] grouping 2[𝑎 − 3(𝑏 + 𝑐)]
symbols
Every language has its vocabulary (the words) and its rules for combing {} set {1,2,3}
these words into complete thoughts (the sentences). symbols
𝜋 pi 𝐴 = 𝜋𝑟2 P
Symbols - express formulas or to represent a constant. ∞ infinity ∞ is endless
= equals 1+1 = 2
Conventional - facts, names, notation, or usage which is generally
agreed upon by mathematicians. ≈ approxima 𝜋 ≈ 3.14
tely equal
Syntax - to make the expression well-formed to make characters and to
symbols clear and does not violate the rules. ≠ not equal 𝜋≠2
to
Math is comprised of primarily two things: numbers and symbols. Here <≤ less than, 2 < 3
are the most common mathematical symbols: less than
or equal to
Characteristics of the Language of Mathematics: >≥ greater 5 > 1
1. Precise - able to make very fine distinctions. than,
2. Concise - able to say things briefly. greater
3. Powerful - able to express complex thoughts with relative ease. than or
equal to
Mathematical Expression square √4 = 2
• Combination of finite symbols that follows mathematical rules � root
• Correct arrangement that represents mathematical objects ("radical")
• Does not have a complete thought ° degrees 20°
• Neither true nor false
∴ therefore 𝑎=𝑏∴𝑏=𝑎
• Most common expressions:
• Numbers and Variables
• Sets • Always true or false, sometimes true and sometimes false
• Functions
• Relations • Most common sentences
• Mathematical formula
Mathematical Sentences • Mathematical theories
• Analogue of an English sentence • Mathematical postulates and corollaries
• Correct arrangement that represents a complete thought • Equations and Inequalities
• Use equality symbols to compare two expressions
 Performing Operations on Mathematical Expression Correctly

G-E-M/D-A/S - a mnemonic used to remember the order of operations in

math problems.

G - simplify everything inside the GROUPING SYMBOL.

E - simplify every EXPONENTIAL NUMBERS in the numerical expression.

M/D - Multiply or Divide whichever comes first, FROM LEFT TO RIGHT.

A/S - FROM LEFT TO RIGHT, add or subtract whichever comes first.

Example: Evaluate the following using GEMDAS rule

1. 10 - 2 + 6 ÷ 3
2. (8 + 2) - (9-2²)
3. 3²-15 ÷ 5 + (6 + 4)
4. 5 + 2 - 3
5. 20 - 5 x 4 + 1
6. 8 x 2 - 4 ÷ 2 + 6
7. (-3) ² - 6 + 3
8. 9 x 8 - 36 ÷ 4
9. 3 + 2 + 8 ÷ 4 (4 - 2)
10. 16 - 6² + 36
11. 60 − 15 ÷ (2 − 5) + 7 𝑥 23
12. 36 – 2 (20 + 12 ÷ 4 x 3 – 2 x 2) + 10