Saxon Math Grade 5, Section 2: Fraction Addition & Subtraction
In this unit, your child adds and subtracts fractions and mixed numbers with unlike denominators, finding common denominators and simplifying answers. Word problems ask whether a result is sensible, such as noticing that 1/2 + 1/3 must be less than 1. After the place value and operations unit, fractions take center stage, and the next unit multiplies and divides them.
By Robert “Bobby” BarnettMath teacher, parent, and founder of Bobby’s Math Club
What is my child learning in Section 2?
- Finding common denominators to add and subtract fractions and mixed numbers, then simplifying, like 1/2 + 1/6 = 4/6 = 2/3. Learn more: Adding and subtracting fractions like 2/3 + 1/4
- Solving fraction word problems and checking that results are sensible, like knowing 1/2 + 1/3 must be less than 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
- Ask how much of a pan of lasagna is gone if you ate 1/2 and your child ate 1/6. Let them find 2/3 and explain why 4/6 simplifies.
- Measure a shelf or a strip of tape in inches with fractions, like 5 3/4 and 2 1/8 inches. Ask your child for the difference, 3 5/8 inches.
- Ask quick sense checks during the day: is 1/2 + 1/3 more or less than 1? Is 3/4 − 1/8 more or less than 1/2? Let your child explain before solving.
Where kids can get stuck
- Leaving answers unsimplified, like 4/6 instead of 2/3, or 7/4 instead of 1 3/4.
- Adding the denominators along with the numerators, so 1/2 + 1/6 becomes 2/8.
- Subtracting mixed numbers without renaming, so 5 1/4 − 2 3/4 becomes 3 2/4 instead of 2 1/2.
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
- common denominator
- The same bottom number shared by two fractions, so their parts are the same size.
- equivalent fractions
- Different-looking fractions with the same value, like 2/3 and 8/12.
- simplify
- To rewrite a fraction with smaller numbers that name the same amount, like 4/6 as 2/3.
- 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.
- rename
- To write a number another way, like 4 1/6 as 3 7/6.
Ready to build your child’s confidence with adding and subtracting 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 Saxon Math Grade 5 Section 2 cover?
Saxon Math Grade 5 Section 2 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.