Question

Create a problem that uses the associative property to find the sum of at least 3 rational numbers. Show how the associative property is used to solve the problem

Answer 1

Here is a scenario where the associative property could be used.  Two friends went to a movie theater and bought a movie ticket, popcorn, and a drink.  The first friend bought their $6 ticket online and paid for the $4 drink and  $3 popcorn together at the concession stand.  The other friend bought the $6 ticket and the same size drink at the counter.  Later, they decided they wanted a $3 popcorn and went back later.  

Here is the math problem showing each scenario as equal.  The associative property is being used.

$6 + ($4 + $3) = ($6 + $4) + $3