Montana Math MT.4.MD.4
The Standard
Make a line plot to display a data set of measurements in fractions of a unit and solve problems involving addition and subtraction of fractions by using information presented in line plots.
2026 Montana Mathematics Content Standards
Teacher's field guide
What This Standard Means
What Students Need to Do
- Students mark each measured length with an X on a number line, stacking Xs when lengths repeat. They use the plot to add lengths or find the difference between them.
What Mastery Looks Like
- A student labels evenly spaced quarter-inch marks and plots every measurement, including repeats. They can find the total of two lengths or how much longer one item is than another, with correct units.
Common Misconceptions
- Students may use one X for a length that appears several times. They may space fraction marks unevenly or subtract denominators when finding a difference.
How to Assess It
- Plot ribbon lengths of 1/4, 1/2, 1/2, 3/4, and 1 inch. Find the total length of the two shortest ribbons and the difference between the longest and shortest.
Lesson moves
Ways to Teach It
Cut paper strips to 1 1/4, 1 1/2, 1 1/2, 1 3/4, and 2 inches; have students measure and plot them.
Show a plot with three Xs at 1/2 inch and one at 3/4 inch; ask why 1/2 needs three Xs.
Pairs draw five fraction-length cards with replacement, make a line plot, and check each other's longest-minus-shortest calculation.
Give students a walking log of 1/4, 1/2, 3/4, and 1/2 mile; have them plot each day and total the first two.
Free download
Printable MT.4.MD.4 Worksheet
A ready-to-print activity worksheet aligned to MT.4.MD.4, with an answer key for the teacher on its own page. No account needed.
PDF, US Letter, prints cleanly in black and white.
Download the worksheetKeep exploring
Related Standards
- MT.3.NF.2
Understand a fraction as a number on the number line by: Representing a unit fraction on a number line, Representing a fraction as multiple copies of a unit fra...
- MT.5.MD.2
Make a line plot to display a data set of measurements in fractions of a unit and use operations on fractions to solve problems involving information presented ...
- MT.6.NS.1
Represent, interpret, and compute quotients of fractions and solve problems in context involving division of fractions by fractions.
Turn this exact standard into a lesson
Grade, subject, topic, and the complete standard are prefilled. Create one free, no account needed.
Also for this standard:Make a WorksheetMake a QuizMake a Sub Lesson