Addition and Subtraction of Fractions with Unlike Denominators (Grade 5)

This lesson set provides an introduction to fraction addition and subtraction when the denominators of fractions differ, problems in which students have to consider different names for fractions relative to a same-sized whole in order to create same-sized units to combine or separate quantities. They will use visual representations (pictorial and symbolic) and mathematical reasoning to rename and combine various fraction quantities. Students will: 

• understand and explain the naming of fraction units in relation to a value of one;  
• understand and explain the effects of partitioning a given fraction to form an equivalent value; and 
• use a variety of strategies and representations to respond to a problem situation involving addition and subtraction of fractions relative to a same-sized whole and weigh their advantages and disadvantages. 

Standards: 5.NF.A.1, 5.NF.A.2