Description
Order of operations gets more challenging when exponents enter the expression. This 6th grade order of operations with exponents escape room includes a complete black-and-white printable packet and a self-checking Google Forms™ version. Both formats follow the same Agent 0007 spy mission and use the same math puzzles, clues, and answers.
Order of operations skills
- Find powers with whole-number, fraction, and decimal bases
- Evaluate numerical expressions using positive exponents
- Evaluate variable expressions with exponents when values are provided
- Place parentheses correctly to make equations true
- Apply whole-number and decimal operations
- Follow directions to decode a substitution cipher
The activity addresses CCSS 6.EE.A.1 and includes computation connected to 6.NS.B.2 and 6.NS.B.3.
Choose print or digital
The printable version is a complete black-and-white escape room that works without student devices. Give students the full packet or distribute one clue at a time so groups bring each answer to you before receiving the next challenge.
The digital version runs through a self-checking Google Form™ and works on computers, tablets, and phones. Students do not need Gmail™, Google Classroom™, or individual Google accounts to use the original student link. An optional copy link is included for schools that require forms to originate within their own system.
What’s included
- Mission briefing and five full-page printable clue pages
- Student workspace and printable mission-success page
- Self-checking Google Forms™ escape room
- Direct student link and QR code
- Optional Google Form™ copy link
- Quick-start guide and teacher directions for both formats
- Answer key, teacher tips, and detailed mathematical solutions
- Optional success signs, cipher materials, and Top Secret decorations
Flexible 6th grade math practice
Most students need about 45–60 minutes, although students with a strong understanding of order of operations may finish in 20–30 minutes. Use the activity for practice, review, test preparation, math centers, cooperative learning, enrichment, independent work, homeschool math, or substitute plans.
Preview the 6th Grade Order of Operations with Exponents Escape Room (PDF).
Frequently asked questions
Do students need devices?
Only for the digital version. The complete printable packet can be used without student devices.
Do students need Google accounts?
No. Anyone with the student link and internet access can complete the original Google Form™. A teacher needs a Google account only when making an optional copy.
Is Google Classroom required?
No. Share the student link through any password-protected platform approved by your school.
Are the printable and digital versions the same?
Yes. Both use the same storyline, math problems, clues, and answers. The Google Form™ checks digital answers automatically; teachers check printable answers.
