Everyday Mathematics Grade 4, Unit 5: Fraction and Mixed Number Computation
In this unit, your child adds and subtracts fractions and mixed numbers with the same denominator, seeing 5/4 as five one-fourths, and begins multiplying a fraction by a whole number. It follows the work on multidigit multiplication, which helps with multiplying fractions, and the class turns next to division and measuring angles.
By Robert “Bobby” BarnettMath teacher, parent, and founder of Bobby’s Math Club
What is my child learning in Unit 5?
- Adding and subtracting fractions and mixed numbers with like denominators, such as 2 3/8 + 1 7/8, by breaking them into unit fractions. Learn more: Adding and subtracting fractions and mixed numbers
- Multiplying a fraction by a whole number, such as 4 × 2/3, by thinking of it as four groups of two thirds. Learn more: Multiplying a fraction by a whole number
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 sum is equal to 4/5?
- 1/5 + 1/5 + 1/5
- 1/4 + 1/4 + 1/4 + 1/4
- 1/5 + 1/5 + 1/5 + 1/5
How you can help
- Measure with a cup as you mix trail mix: if it calls for 3/4 cup of raisins and you make it twice, ask your child how many fourths that is, then how many cups.
- Talk through two walks: if you walk 1 3/4 miles on Saturday and 2 2/4 miles on Sunday, ask your child the total, counting the fourths first.
- Use a pizza cut into 8 slices: if each of 3 people eats 2/8, ask your child how much they ate in all, as 3 × 2/8, and how much is left.
Where kids can get stuck
- Adding the denominators as well as the numerators, so 5/12 + 6/12 becomes 11/24, which is less than 6/12.
- Subtracting the smaller fraction from the larger in 3 1/4 − 1 3/4, instead of regrouping one whole into fourths.
- Multiplying both the numerator and the denominator by the whole number, so 2 × 3/4 turns into 6/8.
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
- unit fraction
- A fraction with a numerator of 1, such as 1/4, naming one equal part.
- mixed number
- A whole number and a fraction together, such as 2 1/4.
- numerator
- The top number of a fraction, which tells how many equal parts are counted.
- denominator
- The bottom number of a fraction, which tells how many equal parts make the whole.
- like denominators
- Denominators that are the same, as in 3/8 and 5/8.
- decompose
- To break a number or fraction into smaller parts, like 5/6 = 2/6 + 3/6.
- whole
- The full amount, shape, or set that a fraction is part of.
Ready to build your child’s confidence with fractions and mixed numbers?
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 4 Unit 5 cover?
Everyday Mathematics Grade 4 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.