Reveal Math Grade 5, Unit 8: Addition and Subtraction of Fractions
In this unit, your child adds and subtracts fractions and mixed numbers with unlike denominators, like 3/4 + 1/6. They find equivalent fractions with a common denominator, regroup with mixed numbers, and solve word problems, estimating with benchmarks like 1/2 to see if answers are reasonable. It follows the decimal units and leads into multiplying fractions.
By Robert “Bobby” BarnettMath teacher, parent, and founder of Bobby’s Math Club
What is my child learning in Unit 8?
- Adding and subtracting fractions and mixed numbers with unlike denominators, including regrouping a whole when subtracting, like 3 1/4 − 1 1/2. Learn more: Adding and subtracting fractions like 2/3 + 1/4
- Solving word problems with fractions and checking each answer against benchmark fractions like 1/2 and 1. Learn more: Story problems that add and subtract fractions
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 common denominator could you use to add 3/4 and 5/6?
- 10
- 12
- 6
How you can help
- Talk about fractions of a pizza or a pie when two people eat different amounts, like 1/3 and 1/4. Ask how much is gone and how much is left.
- Use a ruler marked in eighths to measure two short objects, then find the total and the difference of their lengths in fractions of an inch.
- Ask 'more or less than 1/2?' about everyday fractions, like 3/8 of a bottle or 5/8 of a book. Use benchmarks to judge sums before working them out.
Where kids can get stuck
- Regrouping a whole as ten parts instead of 4/4, so 3 1/4 becomes 2 11/4 instead of 2 5/4.
- Finding a common denominator but forgetting to change the numerator, so 3/4 becomes 3/12 instead of 9/12.
- Choosing the wrong operation, adding when a word problem asks how much more one amount is than another.
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
- numerator
- The top number in a fraction, telling how many parts you have.
- denominator
- The bottom number in a fraction, telling how many equal parts make a whole.
- common denominator
- A denominator that two or more fractions share, like 12 for 2/3 and 1/4.
- equivalent fractions
- Fractions that name the same amount, like 1/2 and 3/6.
- mixed number
- A whole number and a fraction together, like 2 1/2.
- regroup
- To trade 1 for an equal amount of smaller parts, like 1 whole for 4/4 or 1 ten for 10 ones.
- benchmark fraction
- A familiar fraction, like 1/2, used to estimate or compare.
- reasonable
- Making sense for the problem, close to what an estimate predicts.
Ready to build your child’s confidence with fraction addition and subtraction?
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 Reveal Math Grade 5 Unit 8 cover?
Reveal Math Grade 5 Unit 8 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.