Eureka Math² Grade 5, Module 2: Addition and Subtraction of Fractions
In this unit, your child adds and subtracts fractions and mixed numbers with different denominators by renaming them as equivalent fractions with a common unit. Number lines and tape diagrams show what each step means, and word problems ask whether an answer is reasonable. It follows the place value and whole-number unit and comes before applying place value to decimal operations.
By Robert “Bobby” BarnettMath teacher, parent, and founder of Bobby’s Math Club
What is my child learning in Module 2?
- Renaming fractions and mixed numbers with a common unit, like 1 2/3 − 3/4 = 1 8/12 − 9/12 = 11/12, then adding or subtracting. Learn more: Adding and subtracting fractions like 2/3 + 1/4
- Using tape diagrams and number lines to solve fraction word problems, and estimating to judge whether an answer is reasonable. Learn more: Story problems that add and subtract fractions
Sample questions to try together
These are real questions from our practice. Tap the speaker to hear one read aloud, or the light bulb for a hint, and talk about the answer together.
Question 1 of 3
Which common denominator could you use to add 3/4 and 5/6?
- 10
- 12
- 6
How you can help
- Ask your child how much juice is left if a pitcher holds 1 1/2 quarts and you pour out 2/3 quart. Let them draw a tape diagram, then find 5/6 quart.
- Time two chores in fractions of an hour, like 1/2 hour and 1/3 hour. Ask your child for the total time, 5/6 hour, and how many minutes that is, 50.
- Draw a number line from 0 to 2 and mark 3/4 and 1 1/3. Ask your child how far apart they are, using twelfths to find 7/12.
Where kids can get stuck
- Changing the denominator without changing the numerator, so 3/4 becomes 3/12 instead of 9/12.
- Taking the smaller fraction from the larger in a mixed number, so 1 2/3 − 3/4 gets 1 1/12 instead of 11/12.
- Choosing the wrong operation, adding when a story asks how much is left or how much more.
Practice makes perfect
Bobby's Math Club has practice problems that adapt to your child’s level, each with a detailed explanation and an easy-to-follow video, so your child can build confidence in these skills one step at a time.
Words your child will hear
- equivalent fractions
- Different-looking fractions with the same value, like 2/3 and 8/12.
- common denominator
- A denominator two fractions can both be renamed with, like 12 for 1/3 and 1/4.
- numerator
- The top number of a fraction, which counts how many parts you have.
- denominator
- The bottom number of a fraction, which tells how many equal parts make a whole.
- mixed number
- A number written as a whole number plus a fraction, like 3 3/4.
- tape diagram
- A drawing of bars, cut into parts, that shows the amounts in a word problem.
- number line
- A straight line marked with evenly spaced numbers, including fractions.
- reasonable
- Making sense for the problem, close to what an estimate predicts.
Ready to build your child’s confidence with fractions with different denominators?
In Bobby's Math Club, your child practices these skills at just the right level, with a hint when they need one, a clear explanation after every question, and kid-friendly videos. Unlimited practice is free.
Join the club
Written by Robert “Bobby” Barnett
Bobby is an award-winning math teacher, the author of Meet Every Learner’s Needs, and the father of two elementary-school math learners. He uses Bobby’s Math Club with his own kids a few times every week. Learn more or contact Bobby.
Which math standards does Eureka Math² Grade 5 Module 2 cover?
Eureka Math² Grade 5 Module 2 covers these math standards. Each one links to what it means, sample questions, and teaching strategies.
For teachers: Unit names and order vary between editions and districts, so your school’s own materials have the exact sequence. Learn how Bobby's Math Club can help your students grow.