Common Core: 5th Grade Math

Explore the foundational concepts of mathematics through engaging activities and problem-solving strategies designed for 5th graders.

Place Value and DecimalsAdding and Subtracting FractionsMultiplying and Dividing Whole Numbers
Operations with DecimalsVolume and MeasurementGraphing and Data Analysis
Budgeting with DecimalsMeasuring and Comparing VolumesCreating and Interpreting Graphs
Drawing Visual ModelsEstimating to Check Answers
Place Value and Deci...Adding and Subtracti...Multiplying and Divi...Operations with Deci...Volume and Measureme...Graphing and Data An...Budgeting with Decim...Measuring and Compar...Creating and Interpr...Drawing Visual Model...Estimating to Check ...
Basic Concepts

Adding and Subtracting Fractions

Fractions are Pieces of a Whole

Fractions let you share things like pizza, cake, or time! When you add or subtract fractions, you're putting together or taking away pieces.

Making Denominators Match

To add or subtract fractions, the denominators (the bottom numbers) must be the same. If they're not, you need to find a common denominator.

  • \( \frac{1}{4} + \frac{1}{4} = \frac{2}{4} = \frac{1}{2} \)
  • \( \frac{3}{8} - \frac{1}{8} = \frac{2}{8} = \frac{1}{4} \)

If denominators are different:

  • \( \frac{1}{2} + \frac{1}{4} = \frac{2}{4} + \frac{1}{4} = \frac{3}{4} \)

Why Learn This?

Adding and subtracting fractions helps with cooking, measuring, and dividing things evenly in life.

Real-World Fun

  • Sharing a chocolate bar equally with friends.
  • Following a recipe that calls for 1/2 cup plus 1/4 cup of milk.

Examples

  • Adding \( \frac{1}{3} + \frac{1}{6} \) means changing \( \frac{1}{3} \) to \( \frac{2}{6} \), then \( \frac{2}{6} + \frac{1}{6} = \frac{3}{6} = \frac{1}{2} \).

  • Subtracting \( \frac{5}{8} - \frac{3}{8} = \frac{2}{8} = \frac{1}{4} \).

In a Nutshell

Adding and subtracting fractions lets you combine or compare parts of a whole.

Next
Multiplying and Dividing Whole Numbers