Into Math Grade 5, Unit 1: Whole Number Operations and Volume
In this unit, your child multiplies and divides larger whole numbers, like 213 × 32 and 480 ÷ 16, using place value and the usual written method. They also learn what volume is, count unit cubes to measure it, and use length × width × height to find the volume of a rectangular prism. Next comes adding and subtracting fractions.
By Robert “Bobby” BarnettMath teacher, parent, and founder of Bobby’s Math Club
What is my child learning in Unit 1?
- Multiplying multi-digit whole numbers with the usual written method, and estimating first to check that the product makes sense. Learn more: Multiplying big numbers, like 213 × 32
- Dividing numbers up to four digits by two-digit divisors, like 480 ÷ 16, using place value and multiplication facts. Learn more: Dividing by two-digit numbers, like 480 ÷ 16
- Understanding volume as the space inside a solid figure, measured in cubic units with no gaps or overlaps. Learn more: Volume: how much space is inside a solid
- Measuring volume by counting unit cubes, including the hidden ones, and labeling it in cubic centimeters, inches, or feet. Learn more: Finding volume by counting cubes
- Using length × width × height to find the volume of a box, and adding volumes to find the total of two joined boxes. Learn more: Finding the volume of a box
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
Each apple tree in an orchard grows 30 apples. The orchard has 120 trees. How many apples do the trees grow?
- 36,000
- 3,600
- 150
How you can help
- Turn sharing into division and multiplication: if 16 kids split 480 stickers, how many does each get? If 23 packs hold 36 stickers each, how many is that in all?
- Build a box shape from toy blocks or dice. Count the cubes in one layer, count the layers, and multiply together to find the volume.
- Pick two boxes from the pantry or recycling. Measure each in inches, find length × width × height, and guess which holds more before you check.
Where kids can get stuck
- Forgetting the zero in the second partial product, so 213 × 32 comes out as 1,065 instead of 6,816.
- Picking a first chunk that is too big when dividing, like trying 40 twelves for 384 ÷ 12, then getting stuck.
- Multiplying only length and width, which finds the area of the base, and forgetting to multiply by the height.
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
- The answer to a multiplication problem.
- factor
- A number that is multiplied by another number.
- quotient
- The answer to a division problem.
- divisor
- The number you divide by.
- remainder
- The amount left over when a number can't be divided evenly.
- volume
- The amount of space inside a solid shape, measured in cubic units.
- unit cube
- A cube that is 1 unit long, 1 unit wide, and 1 unit tall.
- cubic unit
- The unit for measuring volume: the space one unit cube fills.
- rectangular prism
- A solid shape with six rectangle faces, like a box.
Want to help your child master multiplication, division, and volume?
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 Into Math Grade 5 Unit 1 cover?
Into Math Grade 5 Unit 1 covers these math standards. Each one links to what it means, sample questions, and teaching strategies.
- 5.NBT.B.5: Fluently multiply larger numbers, like 213 × 32.
- 5.NBT.B.6: Divide by a two-digit number, like 480 ÷ 16.
- 5.MD.C.3: Understand volume: how many cubes it takes to fill a solid shape.
- 5.MD.C.4: Find the volume of a shape by counting cubes.
- 5.MD.C.5: Find the volume of a box by multiplying its length, width, and height.
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.