Add & Subtract Fractions (Grade 5)

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Lesson Plans and Worksheets for Grade 5
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Common Core For Grade 5


Examples, solutions, videos, and lessons to help Grade 5 students learn to add and subtract fractions with unlike denominators (including mixed numbers) by replacing given fractions with equivalent fractions in such a way as to produce an equivalent sum or difference of fractions with like denominators.

For example, 2/3 + 5/4 = 8/12 + 15/12 = 23/12. (In general, a/b + c/d = (ad + bc)/bd.)

Common Core: 5.NF.1

Suggested Learning Targets

• I can find common denominators.
• I can create equivalent fractions with common denominators.
• I can add and subtract fractions including mixed numbers.

Activities:

Eric added 4/5 + 1/2 and wrote 5/10 as the sum. Explain to Eric why he is incorrect.
Two unlike fractions have a sum of 1, what might the two fractions be?
What two fractions might I subtract to get an answer of 2/3?
Dana added 2/3 + 3/5 and wrote 5/8 as the sum? Explain why this answer is impossible.

Lessons:

5.NF.1 - Add and Subtract Fractions with Unlike Denominators
This video explains how to add or subtract fractions with unlike denominators or different denominators. To add or subtract, you must have the same units (denominations or denominators). This is illustrated in a pictorial way with a model. Common Denominators, Equivalent Fractions
Creating equivalent fractions using paper folding and finding common denominators using fraction circles.

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Adding Fractions with Unlike Denominators

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