Cluster 1: Use equivalent fractions as a strategy to add and subtract fractions. (Major Cluster)Archived

Clusters should not be sorted from Major to Supporting and then taught in that order. To do so would strip the coherence of the mathematical ideas and miss the opportunity to enhance the major work of the grade with the supporting clusters.

General Information
Number: MAFS.5.NF.1
Title: Use equivalent fractions as a strategy to add and subtract fractions. (Major Cluster)
Type: Cluster
Subject: Mathematics - Archived
Grade: 5
Domain-Subdomain: Number and Operations - Fractions

Related Standards

This cluster includes the following benchmarks.

Related Access Points

This cluster includes the following access points.

Access Points

MAFS.5.NF.1.AP.1a
Add and subtract fractions with like denominators with sums greater than 1 represented by mixed numbers using visual fraction models.
MAFS.5.NF.1.AP.1b
Add or subtract fractions with unlike denominators within one whole unit on a number line.
MAFS.5.NF.1.AP.2a
Solve word problems involving the addition and subtraction of fractions using visual fraction models.

Related Resources

Vetted resources educators can use to teach the concepts and skills in this topic.

Educational Game

Fraction Quiz:

Test your fraction skills by answering questions on this site. This quiz asks you to simplify fractions, convert fractions to decimals and percentages, and answer algebra questions involving fractions. You can even choose difficulty level, question types, and time limit.

Type: Educational Game

Formative Assessments

Maris Has a Party:

Students are given a word problem involving fractions with unlike denominators and are asked to estimate the sum, explain their reasoning, and then determine the sum.

Type: Formative Assessment

Sarah’s Hike:

Students are asked to estimate the difference between two fractional lengths and then calculate the difference.

Type: Formative Assessment

Just Run:

Students are given a word problem involving subtraction of fractions with unlike denominators. Students are asked to determine if a given answer is reasonable, explain their reasoning, and calculate the answer.

Type: Formative Assessment

Baking Cakes:

Students are asked to estimate the sum of two mixed numbers and then calculate the sum.

Type: Formative Assessment

Adding More Fractions with Unlike Denominators:

Students are asked to add pairs of fractions with unlike denominators.

Type: Formative Assessment

Adding Fractions with Unlike Denominators:

Students are asked to add two pairs of fractions with unlike denominators.

Type: Formative Assessment

Subtracting More Fractions:

Students are asked to subtract improper fractions and mixed numbers with unlike denominators.

Type: Formative Assessment

Subtracting Fractions:

Students are asked to subtract fractions with unlike denominators.

Type: Formative Assessment

Lesson Plans

Let's Have a Fraction Party!:

In this lesson, students will use addition and subtraction of fractions with unlike denominators to solve word problems involving situations that arise with the children who were invited to a party. They will use fraction strips as number models and connect the algorithm with these real-life word problems.

Type: Lesson Plan

Fractions make the real WORLD problems go round:

In this lesson students will use a graphic organizer to to solve addition and subtraction word problems. Students will create their own word problems in PowerPoint, by using pen and paper, or dry erase boards to help them to connect to and understand the structure of word problems.  

Type: Lesson Plan

Aaron and Anya's Discovery: Adding Fractions with Unlike Denominators:

In this situational story, Aaron and Anya find several pieces of ribbon/cord of varying fractional lengths. They decide to choose 3 pieces and make a belt. All of the fractions have different denominators; students have to determine common denominators in order to add the fractional pieces. After students successfully add three fractional pieces, they make a belt and label it with their fractional pieces.

Type: Lesson Plan

Babysitter's Club Fun with Fractions MEA:

In this Model Eliciting Activity, MEA, students will apply their knowledge of adding, subtracting, and comparing fractions with like and unlike denominators. Babysitters 'R Us will require students to analyze data in the form of fractional units of time to select the best babysitter for the Cryin' Ryan family.

Model Eliciting Activities, MEAs, are open-ended, interdisciplinary problem-solving activities that are meant to reveal students’ thinking about the concepts embedded in realistic situations. MEAs resemble engineering problems and encourage students to create solutions in the form of mathematical and scientific models. Students work in teams to apply their knowledge of science and mathematics to solve an open-ended problem, while considering constraints and tradeoffs. Students integrate their ELA skills into MEAs as they are asked to clearly document their thought process. MEAs follow a problem-based, student centered approach to learning, where students are encouraged to grapple with the problem while the teacher acts as a facilitator. To learn more about MEA’s visit: https://www.cpalms.org/cpalms/mea.aspx

Type: Lesson Plan

Using Models to Add Fractions with Unlike Denominators:

This lesson is specific to adding fractions with unlike denominators. It requires students to already have a working knowledge of adding fractions with common denominators, and equivalent fractions. Subtracting fractions with unlike denominators will follow in a subsequent lesson.

Type: Lesson Plan

Estimating Fractions Using Benchmark Fractions 0, 1/2, or 1:

In this lesson, students use models (fractions tiles or number lines) to round fractions using benchmark fractions of 0, 1/2, or 1.

Type: Lesson Plan

Using Models to Subtract Fractions with Unlike Denominators:

This lesson is specific to subtracting fractions with unlike denominators. It requires students to already have a working knowledge of subtracting fractions with common denominators and equivalent fractions. 

Type: Lesson Plan

Adding and Subtracting Mixed Numbers with Unlike Denominators:

This lesson helps fifth graders combine their understanding of adding and subtracting fractions with unlike denominators, finding equivalent fractions, and adding and subtracting mixed numbers with like denominators to move on to adding and subtracting mixed numbers with unlike denominators.

Type: Lesson Plan

Discovering Common Denominators:

Students use pattern blocks to represent fractions with unlike denominators. Students discover that they need to convert the pattern blocks to the same size in order to add them. Therefore, they find and use common denominators for the addition of fractions.

Type: Lesson Plan

Looking for Patterns in a Sequence of Fractions:

Students generate and describe a numerical pattern using the multiplication and subtraction of fractions.

Type: Lesson Plan

Original Student Tutorials

Making Art Part 2: Solving Addition and Subtraction Fraction Word Problems:

Learn to solve addition and subtraction word problems involving fractions with unlike denominators. As you complete this art-themed, interactive tutorial, you'll use visual models, write and solve equations, and check the reasonableness of results based on estimates.

This is part 2 of a two-part series. Click below to open part 1.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Making Art Part 1: Estimating Adding and Subtracting Fractions Using Benchmarks:

Read word problems and use number lines with benchmarks to solve multi-step problems involving addition and subtraction of fractions with unlike denominators. In this tutorial, you will help Daisy and Angie paint pictures using fractions. 

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Adding Potions with Unlike Fractions Part 1:

Explore how to add fractions less than one with unlike denominators in this magical, interactive tutorial.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Problem-Solving Tasks

Comparing two different pizzas:

The focus of this task is on understanding that fractions, in an explicit context, are fractions of a specific whole. In this this problem there are three different wholes: the medium pizza, the large pizza, and the two pizzas taken together. This task is best suited for instruction. Students can practice explaining their reasoning to each other in pairs or as part of a whole group discussion.

Type: Problem-Solving Task

Comparing Sums of Unit Fractions:

The purpose of this task is to help develop students' understanding of addition of fractions; it is intended as an instructional task. Notice that students are not asked to find the sum so this may be given to students who are limited to computing sums of fractions with the same denominator. Rather, they need to apply a firm understanding of unit fractions (fractions with one in the numerator) and reason about their relative size.

Type: Problem-Solving Task

Mixed Numbers with Unlike Denominators:

The purpose of this task is to help students realize there are different ways to add mixed numbers and is most appropriate for use in an instructional setting. The two primary ways one can expect students to add are converting the mixed numbers to fractions greater than 1 or adding the whole numbers and fractional parts separately. It is good for students to develop a sense of which approach would be better in a particular context.

Type: Problem-Solving Task

Making S'Mores:

The purpose of this instructional task is to motivate a discussion about adding fractions and the meaning of the common denominator. The different parts of the task have students moving back and forth between the abstract representation of the fractions and the meaning of the fractions in the context.

Type: Problem-Solving Task

Jog-A-Thon:

The purpose of this task is to present students with a situation where it is natural to add fractions with unlike denominators; it can be used for either assessment or instructional purposes. Teachers should anticipate two types of solutions: one where students calculate the distance Alex ran to determine an answer, and one where students compare the two parts of his run to benchmark fractions.

Type: Problem-Solving Task

Salad Dressing:

The purpose of this task is to have students add fractions with unlike denominators and divide a unit fraction by a whole number. This accessible real-life context provides students with an opportunity to apply their understanding of addition as joining two separate quantities.

Type: Problem-Solving Task

Finding Common Denominators to Subtract:

Part (a) of this task asks students to use two different denominators to subtract fractions. The purpose of this is to help students realize that any common denominator will work, not just the least common denominator. Part (b) does not ask students to do it in more than one way; the purpose is to give them an opportunity to choose a denominator and possibly compare with another student who chose a different denominator. The purpose of part (c) is to help students move away from a reliance on drawing pictures. Students can draw a picture if they want, but this subtraction problem is easier to do symbolically, which helps students appreciate the power of symbolic notation.

Type: Problem-Solving Task

Finding Common Denominators to Add:

Part (a) of this task asks students to find and use two different common denominators to add the given fractions. The purpose of this question is to help students realize that they can use any common denominator to find a solution, not just the least common denominator. Part (b) does not ask students to solve the given addition problem in more than one way. Instead, the purpose of this question is to give students an opportunity to choose a denominator and possibly to compare their solution method with another student who chose a different denominator.  The purpose of part (c) is to give students who are ready to work symbolically a chance to work more efficiently.

Type: Problem-Solving Task

Egyptian Fractions:

One goal of this task is to help students develop comfort and ease with adding fractions with unlike denominators. Another goal is to help them develop fraction number sense by having students decompose fractions.

Type: Problem-Solving Task

Do These Add Up?:

This task addresses common errors that students make when interpreting adding fractions word problems. It is very important for students to recognize that they only add fractions when the fractions refer to the same whole, and also when the fractions of the whole being added do not overlap. This set of questions is designed to enhance a student's understanding of when it is and is not appropriate to add fractions.

Type: Problem-Solving Task

Student Center Activity

Fractions Jigsaw:

This problem provides students an opportunity to find equivalent fractions and carry out some simple additions and subtractions of fractions in a context that may challenge and motivate students. Users need to download, print, and cut-out the fraction jigsaw. Then, they must arrange the square pieces right-side up so that the edges that touch contain equivalent fractions. The Teachers' Notes page offers rationale, suggestions for implementation, discussion questions, and ideas for extension and support.

Type: Student Center Activity

Teaching Idea

Adding Fractions with Unlike Denominators:

Kahn Academy video - How to add fractions with unlike denominators.

Type: Teaching Idea

Tutorials

Creating Common Denominators:

This tutorial explores the addition and subtraction of fractions with unlike denominators. Using the number line, this mathematical process can be easily visualized and connected to the final strategy of multiplying the denominators (a/b + c/d = ad +bc/bd).  The video number line does show negative numbers which goes beyond elementary standards so an elementary teacher would need to reflect on whether this video will enrich student knowledge or cause confusion.

Type: Tutorial

Least Common Denominators:

In this tutorial, students will be exposed to the strategy of finding the least common denominator for certain cases.  Elementary teachers should note this is not a requirement for elementary standards and consider whether this video will further student knowledge or create confusion.  This chapter explains how to find the smallest possible common denominator. For example, 2/3 + 5/4 = 8/12 + 15/12 = 23/12.  

Type: Tutorial

Adding and Subtracting Fractions:

This tutorial for student audiences will assist learners with a further understanding of the rules for adding and subtracting fractions. Students will be able to navigate the teaching portion of the tutorial at their own pace and test their understanding after each step of the lesson with a "Try This" section. The "Try This" section will monitor students answers and self-check by a right answer turning orange and a wrong answer dissolving.

Type: Tutorial

Adding Fractions:

In this web-based tutorial, students learn procedures for adding fractions with like and unlike denominators. The tutorial includes visual representations of the problems using pizzas, animations of the algorithm, and links to related lessons, worksheets, and practice problems.

Type: Tutorial

Subtracting Fractions:

In this web-based tutorial, students learn procedures for subtracting fractions. The tutorial includes visual representations of the problems using pizzas, animations of the algorithm, and links to related lessons, worksheets, and practice problems.

Type: Tutorial

Virtual Manipulative

Fraction Game:

This virtual manipulative allows individual students to work with fraction relationships. (There is also a link to a two-player version.)

Type: Virtual Manipulative

Student Resources

Vetted resources students can use to learn the concepts and skills in this topic.

Original Student Tutorials

Making Art Part 2: Solving Addition and Subtraction Fraction Word Problems:

Learn to solve addition and subtraction word problems involving fractions with unlike denominators. As you complete this art-themed, interactive tutorial, you'll use visual models, write and solve equations, and check the reasonableness of results based on estimates.

This is part 2 of a two-part series. Click below to open part 1.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Making Art Part 1: Estimating Adding and Subtracting Fractions Using Benchmarks:

Read word problems and use number lines with benchmarks to solve multi-step problems involving addition and subtraction of fractions with unlike denominators. In this tutorial, you will help Daisy and Angie paint pictures using fractions. 

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Adding Potions with Unlike Fractions Part 1:

Explore how to add fractions less than one with unlike denominators in this magical, interactive tutorial.

Type: Original Student Tutorial

Educational Game

Fraction Quiz:

Test your fraction skills by answering questions on this site. This quiz asks you to simplify fractions, convert fractions to decimals and percentages, and answer algebra questions involving fractions. You can even choose difficulty level, question types, and time limit.

Type: Educational Game

Problem-Solving Tasks

Comparing two different pizzas:

The focus of this task is on understanding that fractions, in an explicit context, are fractions of a specific whole. In this this problem there are three different wholes: the medium pizza, the large pizza, and the two pizzas taken together. This task is best suited for instruction. Students can practice explaining their reasoning to each other in pairs or as part of a whole group discussion.

Type: Problem-Solving Task

Comparing Sums of Unit Fractions:

The purpose of this task is to help develop students' understanding of addition of fractions; it is intended as an instructional task. Notice that students are not asked to find the sum so this may be given to students who are limited to computing sums of fractions with the same denominator. Rather, they need to apply a firm understanding of unit fractions (fractions with one in the numerator) and reason about their relative size.

Type: Problem-Solving Task

Mixed Numbers with Unlike Denominators:

The purpose of this task is to help students realize there are different ways to add mixed numbers and is most appropriate for use in an instructional setting. The two primary ways one can expect students to add are converting the mixed numbers to fractions greater than 1 or adding the whole numbers and fractional parts separately. It is good for students to develop a sense of which approach would be better in a particular context.

Type: Problem-Solving Task

Making S'Mores:

The purpose of this instructional task is to motivate a discussion about adding fractions and the meaning of the common denominator. The different parts of the task have students moving back and forth between the abstract representation of the fractions and the meaning of the fractions in the context.

Type: Problem-Solving Task

Jog-A-Thon:

The purpose of this task is to present students with a situation where it is natural to add fractions with unlike denominators; it can be used for either assessment or instructional purposes. Teachers should anticipate two types of solutions: one where students calculate the distance Alex ran to determine an answer, and one where students compare the two parts of his run to benchmark fractions.

Type: Problem-Solving Task

Salad Dressing:

The purpose of this task is to have students add fractions with unlike denominators and divide a unit fraction by a whole number. This accessible real-life context provides students with an opportunity to apply their understanding of addition as joining two separate quantities.

Type: Problem-Solving Task

Finding Common Denominators to Subtract:

Part (a) of this task asks students to use two different denominators to subtract fractions. The purpose of this is to help students realize that any common denominator will work, not just the least common denominator. Part (b) does not ask students to do it in more than one way; the purpose is to give them an opportunity to choose a denominator and possibly compare with another student who chose a different denominator. The purpose of part (c) is to help students move away from a reliance on drawing pictures. Students can draw a picture if they want, but this subtraction problem is easier to do symbolically, which helps students appreciate the power of symbolic notation.

Type: Problem-Solving Task

Finding Common Denominators to Add:

Part (a) of this task asks students to find and use two different common denominators to add the given fractions. The purpose of this question is to help students realize that they can use any common denominator to find a solution, not just the least common denominator. Part (b) does not ask students to solve the given addition problem in more than one way. Instead, the purpose of this question is to give students an opportunity to choose a denominator and possibly to compare their solution method with another student who chose a different denominator.  The purpose of part (c) is to give students who are ready to work symbolically a chance to work more efficiently.

Type: Problem-Solving Task

Egyptian Fractions:

One goal of this task is to help students develop comfort and ease with adding fractions with unlike denominators. Another goal is to help them develop fraction number sense by having students decompose fractions.

Type: Problem-Solving Task

Do These Add Up?:

This task addresses common errors that students make when interpreting adding fractions word problems. It is very important for students to recognize that they only add fractions when the fractions refer to the same whole, and also when the fractions of the whole being added do not overlap. This set of questions is designed to enhance a student's understanding of when it is and is not appropriate to add fractions.

Type: Problem-Solving Task

Tutorials

Creating Common Denominators:

This tutorial explores the addition and subtraction of fractions with unlike denominators. Using the number line, this mathematical process can be easily visualized and connected to the final strategy of multiplying the denominators (a/b + c/d = ad +bc/bd).  The video number line does show negative numbers which goes beyond elementary standards so an elementary teacher would need to reflect on whether this video will enrich student knowledge or cause confusion.

Type: Tutorial

Least Common Denominators:

In this tutorial, students will be exposed to the strategy of finding the least common denominator for certain cases.  Elementary teachers should note this is not a requirement for elementary standards and consider whether this video will further student knowledge or create confusion.  This chapter explains how to find the smallest possible common denominator. For example, 2/3 + 5/4 = 8/12 + 15/12 = 23/12.  

Type: Tutorial

Adding and Subtracting Fractions:

This tutorial for student audiences will assist learners with a further understanding of the rules for adding and subtracting fractions. Students will be able to navigate the teaching portion of the tutorial at their own pace and test their understanding after each step of the lesson with a "Try This" section. The "Try This" section will monitor students answers and self-check by a right answer turning orange and a wrong answer dissolving.

Type: Tutorial

Virtual Manipulative

Fraction Game:

This virtual manipulative allows individual students to work with fraction relationships. (There is also a link to a two-player version.)

Type: Virtual Manipulative

Parent Resources

Vetted resources caregivers can use to help students learn the concepts and skills in this topic.

Problem-Solving Tasks

Comparing two different pizzas:

The focus of this task is on understanding that fractions, in an explicit context, are fractions of a specific whole. In this this problem there are three different wholes: the medium pizza, the large pizza, and the two pizzas taken together. This task is best suited for instruction. Students can practice explaining their reasoning to each other in pairs or as part of a whole group discussion.

Type: Problem-Solving Task

Comparing Sums of Unit Fractions:

The purpose of this task is to help develop students' understanding of addition of fractions; it is intended as an instructional task. Notice that students are not asked to find the sum so this may be given to students who are limited to computing sums of fractions with the same denominator. Rather, they need to apply a firm understanding of unit fractions (fractions with one in the numerator) and reason about their relative size.

Type: Problem-Solving Task

Mixed Numbers with Unlike Denominators:

The purpose of this task is to help students realize there are different ways to add mixed numbers and is most appropriate for use in an instructional setting. The two primary ways one can expect students to add are converting the mixed numbers to fractions greater than 1 or adding the whole numbers and fractional parts separately. It is good for students to develop a sense of which approach would be better in a particular context.

Type: Problem-Solving Task

Making S'Mores:

The purpose of this instructional task is to motivate a discussion about adding fractions and the meaning of the common denominator. The different parts of the task have students moving back and forth between the abstract representation of the fractions and the meaning of the fractions in the context.

Type: Problem-Solving Task

Jog-A-Thon:

The purpose of this task is to present students with a situation where it is natural to add fractions with unlike denominators; it can be used for either assessment or instructional purposes. Teachers should anticipate two types of solutions: one where students calculate the distance Alex ran to determine an answer, and one where students compare the two parts of his run to benchmark fractions.

Type: Problem-Solving Task

Salad Dressing:

The purpose of this task is to have students add fractions with unlike denominators and divide a unit fraction by a whole number. This accessible real-life context provides students with an opportunity to apply their understanding of addition as joining two separate quantities.

Type: Problem-Solving Task

Finding Common Denominators to Subtract:

Part (a) of this task asks students to use two different denominators to subtract fractions. The purpose of this is to help students realize that any common denominator will work, not just the least common denominator. Part (b) does not ask students to do it in more than one way; the purpose is to give them an opportunity to choose a denominator and possibly compare with another student who chose a different denominator. The purpose of part (c) is to help students move away from a reliance on drawing pictures. Students can draw a picture if they want, but this subtraction problem is easier to do symbolically, which helps students appreciate the power of symbolic notation.

Type: Problem-Solving Task

Finding Common Denominators to Add:

Part (a) of this task asks students to find and use two different common denominators to add the given fractions. The purpose of this question is to help students realize that they can use any common denominator to find a solution, not just the least common denominator. Part (b) does not ask students to solve the given addition problem in more than one way. Instead, the purpose of this question is to give students an opportunity to choose a denominator and possibly to compare their solution method with another student who chose a different denominator.  The purpose of part (c) is to give students who are ready to work symbolically a chance to work more efficiently.

Type: Problem-Solving Task

Egyptian Fractions:

One goal of this task is to help students develop comfort and ease with adding fractions with unlike denominators. Another goal is to help them develop fraction number sense by having students decompose fractions.

Type: Problem-Solving Task

Do These Add Up?:

This task addresses common errors that students make when interpreting adding fractions word problems. It is very important for students to recognize that they only add fractions when the fractions refer to the same whole, and also when the fractions of the whole being added do not overlap. This set of questions is designed to enhance a student's understanding of when it is and is not appropriate to add fractions.

Type: Problem-Solving Task

Tutorials

Adding and Subtracting Fractions:

This tutorial for student audiences will assist learners with a further understanding of the rules for adding and subtracting fractions. Students will be able to navigate the teaching portion of the tutorial at their own pace and test their understanding after each step of the lesson with a "Try This" section. The "Try This" section will monitor students answers and self-check by a right answer turning orange and a wrong answer dissolving.

Type: Tutorial

Subtracting Fractions:

In this web-based tutorial, students learn procedures for subtracting fractions. The tutorial includes visual representations of the problems using pizzas, animations of the algorithm, and links to related lessons, worksheets, and practice problems.

Type: Tutorial