FTCE Professional Education Practice Exam

What does the phrase "My dear Aunt Sally" serve as in teaching mathematical order of operations?

1. Memory aid

2. Cheat code

3. Mnemonic device

4. Instructional tool

The correct answer is: Mnemonic device

The phrase "My dear Aunt Sally" is widely used as a mnemonic device in teaching the order of operations in mathematics. This phrase helps students remember the sequence of operations they should follow when solving mathematical expressions: Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication and Division (from left to right), Addition and Subtraction (from left to right). A mnemonic device is a technique that aids memory by associating complex information with simple and memorable phrases or patterns. In this case, the initial letters of each component of the order of operations correspond to the first letters of the words in the phrase, making it easier for students to recall the correct order of operations as they approach solving problems. This method effectively transforms potentially confusing concepts into a straightforward and memorable guideline, facilitating better understanding and retention of the material. The other options, such as memory aid and instructional tool, describe functions similar to that of a mnemonic device but do not encapsulate the specific technique of tying the order of operations to a catchy and memorable phrase as effectively.