Zearn Math Grade 4, Mission 5: Fraction Equivalence, Ordering, and Operations
In this unit, your child finds equivalent fractions, compares fractions, adds and subtracts fractions and mixed numbers with like denominators, and multiplies a fraction by a whole number. They also build line plots of measurements in halves, fourths, and eighths. It follows the geometry unit and leads into decimal fractions.
By Robert “Bobby” BarnettMath teacher, parent, and founder of Bobby’s Math Club
What is my child learning in Mission 5?
- Splitting and joining fraction pieces with tape diagrams and area models to show equivalences like 2/3 = 8/12. Learn more: Why fractions like 3/4 and 6/8 are equal
- Ordering and comparing fractions like 3/4 and 5/8 with benchmarks, common denominators, and number lines. Learn more: Comparing fractions like 2/3 and 5/6
- Adding and subtracting fractions and mixed numbers with like denominators, and decomposing fractions into unit fractions. Learn more: Adding and subtracting fractions and mixed numbers
- Multiplying a fraction by a whole number, such as 4 × 5/6, and writing products greater than 1 as mixed numbers. Learn more: Multiplying a fraction by a whole number
- Making line plots of measurements in halves, fourths, and eighths of an inch, and adding and subtracting fractions to answer questions. Learn more: Charting measurements in halves, fourths, and eighths
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
What is the missing number? 4/5 = ?/10
- 4
- 9
- 8
How you can help
- Measure pencils or crayons to the nearest eighth of an inch, mark each on a hand-drawn line plot, and ask how much longer the longest is than the shortest.
- Fold paper strips into fourths and eighths, and ask your child to show that 3/4 and 6/8 cover the same length.
- Mix a fruit drink or trail mix together: if each batch uses 2/3 cup and you make 4 batches, ask your child how many cups that is.
Where kids can get stuck
- Spacing 1/8, 1/4, and 1/2 as if they were equal steps apart on a line plot.
- Putting 1/2 and 4/8 in different spots, so the line plot shows two piles where there should be one.
- Adding the denominators when adding fractions, so 3/8 + 2/8 gets written as 5/16.
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
- equivalent fractions
- Fractions that name the same amount, such as 3/4 and 6/8.
- 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.
- common denominator
- A denominator two fractions share, such as sixths for 2/3 and 5/6.
- mixed number
- A whole number and a fraction together, such as 2 1/4.
- unit fraction
- A fraction with a numerator of 1, such as 1/4, naming one equal part.
- line plot
- A number line with an X above it for each measurement in a set of data.
- data
- Information collected by counting or measuring.
Want to help your child master fraction equivalence and operations?
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.
Join the club
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 Zearn Math Grade 4 Mission 5 cover?
Zearn Math Grade 4 Mission 5 covers these math standards. Each one links to what it means, sample questions, and teaching strategies.
- 4.NF.A.1: Find equal fractions, like 3/4 = 6/8, by multiplying top and bottom.
- 4.NF.A.2: Compare fractions with different denominators, like 2/3 and 5/6.
- 4.NF.B.3: Add and subtract fractions with the same denominator, like 5/12 + 6/12.
- 4.NF.B.4: Multiply a fraction by a whole number, like 2 × 3/4.
- 4.MD.B.4: Read line plots marked in fractions, like 1/4 and 1/8 inch.
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.