School Improvement in Maryland
Sample Item Scoring Information Return

Standard 1.0 Knowledge of Algebra, Patterns, and Functions

Topic B. Expressions, Equations, and Inequalities

Indicator 1. Write and evaluate expressions

Objective c. Evaluate numeric expressions using the order of operations

Assessment limit: Use no more than 4 operations (+, -, x, ÷ with no remainders) with or without 1 set of parentheses or a division bar and whole numbers (0-100)
Note: Highlighted assessment limits will be tested in the no calculator section of MSA.

Selected Response (SR) Item

Look at the expression below.

36 ÷ 3 + 6 x 2

What is the value of the expression?

  1. 2
  2. 8
  3. 24
  4. 36
Correct Answer
C. 24

Answer Annotation

  1. 2    (3 + 6 = 9, 9 x 2 = 18, 36 ÷ 18 = 2)
  2. 8    (3 + 6 = 9, 36 ÷ 9 = 4, 4 x 2 = 8)
  3. 24   (correct answer)
  4. 36   (36 ÷ 3 = 12, 12 + 6 = 18, 18 x 2 = 36)
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