Description
A spy mission gives students a reason to check every step of their order of operations work. This 5th grade order of operations escape room includes a low-prep printable packet and a self-checking Google Forms™ version. Students help Agent 0007 stop the mathematical villain Kay Oss while practicing numerical expressions without exponents or negative numbers.
Order of operations skills
- Apply addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division in the correct order
- Evaluate expressions containing parentheses and brackets
- Place parentheses to make an equation true
- Solve multi-step word problems with all four operations
- Use substitution and Caesar-shift ciphers with directions provided
The math aligns with CCSS 5.OA.A.1 and 5.OA.A.2. This activity does not include exponents or negative numbers.
Choose print or digital
The black-and-white printable version works without student devices. Give students the full packet, use the clues as math centers, or hand out one clue at a time for a more traditional escape-room experience.
The digital version is automated and self-checking in Google Forms™. Students do not need Gmail™, Google Classroom™, or individual email accounts. They only need an internet-connected computer, tablet, or phone. An optional copy link is included for schools that require Google Forms™ to originate within their own system.
What’s included
- Five full-page printable spy-themed clue pages
- Student workspace on the printable clues
- Mission briefing, Kay Oss dossier, and cipher directions
- Mission Success page
- Automated Google Forms™ escape room
- QR code and student access link
- Teacher directions and implementation options
- Quick-view solutions and a detailed answer key
- Exit tickets and optional Top Secret decorations
- Optional success signs
Flexible 5th grade math practice
Most students finish in about 40–60 minutes, although timing varies. Use the activity for order of operations practice, review, test prep, math centers, enrichment, early finishers, partner work, small groups, or sub plans.
Preview the 5th Grade Order of Operations Escape Room (PDF).
Frequently asked questions
Can students complete it without devices?
Yes. The printable packet includes the mission and all five clues.
Do students need Google accounts for the digital version?
No. Anyone with the link and internet access can complete the Google Form™.
Do students need to search the web?
No. Every clue and cipher direction students need is included.
