Everyday Mathematics Grade 3, Unit 5: Fractions and Multiplication
In this unit, your child learns what fractions mean: equal parts of a whole, written with a numerator and a denominator. Children place fractions on a number line and keep sharpening multiplication facts. The halves and quarters from measuring with a ruler lead naturally into this work, and the next unit turns to patterns, two-step problems, and multiplying by tens.
By Robert “Bobby” BarnettMath teacher, parent, and founder of Bobby’s Math Club
What is my child learning in Unit 5?
- Naming fractions such as 3/4, where the denominator, the bottom number, tells the equal parts and the numerator, the top number, tells how many. Learn more: What a fraction like 3/4 means
- Placing fractions on a number line by splitting the space from 0 to 1 into equal parts and counting the jumps. Learn more: Fractions on a number line
- Strengthening multiplication facts, especially the harder 6s, 7s, and 8s, and using them to solve division facts too. Learn more about knowing the times tables by heart: Knowing the times tables by heart · Learn more about dividing within 100
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
Tariq is painting this paper strip blue for a class banner. So far he has painted the blue parts. What fraction of the strip does he still need to paint?
- 5/3
- 3/8
- 5/8
How you can help
- Fold a paper napkin or a sheet of paper into 2, 4, or 8 equal parts, and ask your child to name one part, then three parts, as fractions.
- Treat a walk or ride as a number line: if the trip is split into 4 equal parts, ask what fraction of the way you have gone at each quarter.
- Quiz each other on a few tricky facts while waiting in line at the store, and let your child ask you some too, then check your answers.
Where kids can get stuck
- Thinking 1/8 is bigger than 1/4 because 8 is a bigger number than 4.
- Counting the tick marks instead of the spaces, so a line split into fourths gets labeled in fifths.
- Calling uneven pieces fourths just because there are four of them, even when one piece is clearly larger.
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
- fraction
- A number that names equal parts of a whole, like 3/4.
- numerator
- The top number in a fraction; it tells how many equal parts are counted.
- denominator
- The bottom number in a fraction; it tells how many equal parts make the whole.
- unit fraction
- A fraction with 1 on top, like 1/3, naming one equal part.
- equal parts
- Parts of a whole that are all exactly the same size.
- number line
- A line with numbers marked in order at equal spaces.
- whole
- The entire shape, object, or group before it is split into parts.
Ready to build your child’s confidence with fractions and multiplication?
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.
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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 Everyday Mathematics Grade 3 Unit 5 cover?
Everyday Mathematics Grade 3 Unit 5 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.