Zearn Math Grade 5, Mission 2: Multi-Digit Whole Number and Decimal Fraction Operations
In this unit, your child multiplies and divides multi-digit whole numbers and decimals. They use the usual written method for products like 213 × 32, divide by two-digit divisors, and extend both to decimals to the hundredths. Along the way they write and evaluate expressions with parentheses. It builds on decimal place value and leads into adding and subtracting fractions.
By Robert “Bobby” BarnettMath teacher, parent, and founder of Bobby’s Math Club
What is my child learning in Mission 2?
- Multiplying multi-digit whole numbers with the usual written method, estimating first to check the size of each product. Learn more: Multiplying big numbers, like 213 × 32
- Dividing whole numbers by two-digit divisors, like 480 ÷ 16, using estimation and multiplication to find each digit of the quotient. Learn more: Dividing by two-digit numbers, like 480 ÷ 16
- Multiplying and dividing decimals to the hundredths by relating them to whole-number work and place value. Learn more about adding and subtracting decimals to hundredths: Adding and subtracting decimals to hundredths · Learn more about multiplying decimals to hundredths · Learn more about dividing decimals to hundredths
- Evaluating expressions with parentheses, like 4 × (2 + 3), by working out the grouped part first. Learn more: Solving number sentences with parentheses
- Writing expressions from words, like 'double the sum of 4 and 6,' and explaining what an expression shows. Learn more: Turning words into number sentences
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
- Work out a real order together, like 18 pizzas cut into 12 slices each, or 345 cookies packed 15 to a box. Ask your child to estimate, then calculate.
- Say a short phrase like 'add 4 and 6, then double it' and ask your child to write it with parentheses. Then switch roles and solve theirs.
- Find the cost of several items with decimal prices, like 6 bottles of water at $0.85. Estimate first, then multiply and compare.
Where kids can get stuck
- Misaligning the columns of partial products, so tens sit under hundreds and the product is far off.
- Ignoring parentheses, so 20 − (6 + 4) gets worked as 20 − 6 + 4 instead of 20 − 10.
- Leaving out parentheses when writing, so 'add 4 and 6, then double it' becomes 4 + 6 × 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
- product
- The answer to a multiplication problem.
- partial product
- Part of a multiplication answer, found by multiplying one place at a time.
- algorithm
- A step-by-step method for solving a problem, like the usual way to multiply on paper.
- quotient
- The answer to a division problem.
- divisor
- The number you divide by.
- expression
- Numbers and symbols that show a value, like (5 + 7) × 3, with no equal sign.
- parentheses
- The symbols ( ) that group the part of an expression to work out first.
- evaluate
- To work out the value of an expression.
- estimate
- A close guess found by rounding or using easy numbers.
Ready to build your child’s confidence with multi-digit multiplication and division?
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 5 Mission 2 cover?
Zearn Math Grade 5 Mission 2 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.NBT.B.7: Add, subtract, multiply, and divide decimals to hundredths.
- 5.OA.A.1: Solve problems with parentheses and brackets, working inside first.
- 5.OA.A.2: Turn words into calculations like (5 + 7) × 3, and explain them.
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.