Eureka Math Grade 5, Module 4: Multiplication and Division of Fractions and Decimals
In this unit, your child multiplies and divides with fractions and decimals. They find fractions of a set, multiply fractions by fractions, see multiplying as scaling, and divide with unit fractions. They write expressions for word problems and use line plots of fraction measurements. It builds on adding and subtracting fractions and leads into volume and area next.
By Robert “Bobby” BarnettMath teacher, parent, and founder of Bobby’s Math Club
What is my child learning in Module 4?
- Evaluating expressions that mix fractions and grouping symbols, like 1/2 × (8 + 4) = 6. Learn more: Solving number sentences with parentheses
- Writing word problems as expressions, like 2/3 × (15 − 6), and describing what an expression means without solving. Learn more: Turning words into number sentences
- Interpreting a fraction as division, so 2 ÷ 3 = 2/3, when sharing things equally. Learn more: Fractions as sharing, like 3 ÷ 4 = 3/4
- Finding a fraction of a set, like 3/4 of 24 = 18, and multiplying fractions by fractions. Learn more: Multiplying fractions, like 2/3 × 4/5
- Seeing multiplication as scaling, so a number times 3/4 shrinks and a number times 5/4 grows. Learn more: When multiplying makes a number smaller
- Solving real problems by multiplying fractions and mixed numbers, like 2 1/2 servings of 3/4 cup each. Learn more: Multiplying fractions in real life, like recipes
- Dividing a unit fraction by a whole number and a whole number by a unit fraction, using drawings and number lines. Learn more: Dividing with fractions, like 1/2 ÷ 4
- Making line plots of measurements in eighths, then using fraction operations to answer questions about the data. Learn more: Measurement charts with halves, quarters, 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
Work out (25 - 5) × 3.
- 10
- 70
- 60
How you can help
- Ask a fraction-of question about a group of things, like 3/4 of a 24-pack of water bottles. Let your child find 1/4 first, 6, then 3/4, which is 18.
- Cut a paper rectangle in half one way, then into thirds the other way. Ask your child what fraction one small piece is, 1/6, and how that shows 1/2 × 1/3.
- Measure a handful of pencils or shoelaces to the nearest 1/8 inch, plot them as Xs on a number line, and ask your child the difference between the longest and shortest.
Where kids can get stuck
- Reading “1/2 of 3/4” as addition and answering 5/4, instead of a number less than 3/4, which is 3/8.
- Assuming any fraction makes a number smaller, so they expect 7/6 × 12 to be less than 12.
- Confusing sharing with grouping, so “how many 1/4-cup scoops are in 3 cups” gets 3/4 instead of 12.
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
- product
- What you get when you multiply numbers together.
- scaling
- Resizing a number by multiplying, making it larger, smaller, or keeping it the same.
- unit fraction
- A fraction with 1 as its numerator, like 1/3 or 1/8.
- quotient
- What you get when you divide one number by another.
- expression
- A math phrase with numbers and signs, but no equal sign.
- line plot
- A number line with X marks that shows how often each measurement appears.
- mixed number
- A whole number and a fraction together, like 2 1/2.
- numerator
- In 3/4, the 3: the number of equal parts being counted.
- denominator
- In 3/4, the 4: the number of equal parts the whole is cut into.
Ready to build your child’s confidence with fraction multiplication and division?
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 5 Module 4 cover?
Eureka Math Grade 5 Module 4 covers these math standards. Each one links to what it means, sample questions, and teaching strategies.
- 5.OA.A.1: Solve problems with parentheses and brackets, working inside first.
- 5.OA.A.2: Turn words into calculations like (5 + 7) × 3, and explain them.
- 5.NF.B.3: Understand a fraction as division, like 2 ÷ 3 = 2/3.
- 5.NF.B.4: Multiply fractions, like 2/3 × 4/5 or 5/8 × 16.
- 5.NF.B.5: See how multiplying by a fraction can make a number bigger or smaller.
- 5.NF.B.6: Solve word problems that multiply fractions and mixed numbers.
- 5.NF.B.7: Divide with fractions, like 1/2 ÷ 4 and 5 ÷ 1/3.
- 5.MD.B.2: Use line plots marked in fractions to solve problems in several steps.
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.