Eureka Math Grade 4, Module 5: Fraction Equivalence Ordering and Operations
In this unit, your child spends a long stretch on fractions. They make equivalent fractions, compare and order fractions with different denominators, add and subtract fractions and mixed numbers, and multiply a fraction by a whole number. Factors help along the way, and line plots of measurements put fractions to use. It follows the geometry unit and leads into decimals.
By Robert “Bobby” BarnettMath teacher, parent, and founder of Bobby’s Math Club
What is my child learning in Module 5?
- Using factor pairs to find equivalent fractions, like seeing 6/8 = 3/4 because 2 is a factor of both 6 and 8. Learn more about finding factors and multiples up to 100: Finding factors and multiples up to 100 · Learn more about spotting prime numbers
- Splitting each part of a fraction model into smaller equal parts to show why 2/3 = 4/6 = 8/12. Learn more: Why fractions like 3/4 and 6/8 are equal
- Ordering three or more fractions, like 2/3, 5/8, and 3/4, with common denominators and benchmarks. Learn more: Comparing fractions like 2/3 and 5/6
- Adding and subtracting fractions and mixed numbers with like denominators, including renaming 7/4 as 1 3/4. Learn more: Adding and subtracting fractions and mixed numbers
- Multiplying a whole number by a fraction, like 5 × 3/8 = 15/8, and renaming the answer as a mixed number. Learn more: Multiplying a fraction by a whole number
- Making line plots of measurements in halves, fourths, and eighths, and adding and subtracting fractions to answer questions about them. Learn more: Charting measurements in halves, fourths, and eighths
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
4 × 9 = 36. Which sentence is true?
- 4 is a multiple of 36.
- 36 is a multiple of 4, but not of 9.
- 36 is a multiple of both 4 and 9.
How you can help
- Measure five crayons or pencils to the nearest quarter inch, and draw a line plot together. Ask your child to find the difference between the longest and shortest.
- Fold a tortilla or a sheet of paper in half, then fold each half into thirds. Ask your child to name the same amount two ways, 1/2 and 3/6.
- Mix a pitcher of juice with a 1/4 measuring cup. Ask how much 5 scoops make, and have your child write it as 5/4 and as 1 1/4 cups.
Where kids can get stuck
- Placing 1/8 to the right of 1/4 on a number line, as if a bigger denominator meant a bigger amount.
- Putting 1/2 and 4/8 in different spots on a line plot, so one pile becomes two.
- Multiplying both numbers by the whole number, so 2 × 3/4 becomes 6/8 instead of 6/4.
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
- Fractions that name the same amount, like 3/4 and 6/8.
- numerator
- The top number of a fraction, telling how many equal parts are counted.
- denominator
- The bottom number of a fraction, telling how many equal parts make one whole.
- common denominator
- The same denominator shared by two fractions, which makes them easy to compare or add.
- benchmark fraction
- A familiar fraction, like 1/2 or 1, used to compare other fractions.
- mixed number
- A whole number and a fraction together, like 2 1/4.
- unit fraction
- A fraction with 1 as its numerator, like 1/4 or 1/8.
- line plot
- A number line with an X above it for each measurement in a set of data.
- factor
- A number that multiplies with another number to make a given number, like 4 in 4 × 6 = 24.
Want to help your child master working with fractions?
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 Math Grade 4 Module 5 cover?
Eureka Math Grade 4 Module 5 covers these math standards. Each one links to what it means, sample questions, and teaching strategies.
- 4.OA.B.4: Find factors and multiples up to 100, and spot prime numbers.
- 4.NF.A.1: Find equal fractions, like 3/4 = 6/8, by multiplying top and bottom.
- 4.NF.A.2: Compare fractions with different denominators, like 2/3 and 5/6.
- 4.NF.B.3: Add and subtract fractions with the same denominator, like 5/12 + 6/12.
- 4.NF.B.4: Multiply a fraction by a whole number, like 2 × 3/4.
- 4.MD.B.4: Read line plots marked in fractions, like 1/4 and 1/8 inch.
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.