5.3.K

Math5th Grade

The Standard

add and subtract positive rational numbers fluently

Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills for Mathematics

Teacher's field guide

What Students Need to Do: Students add and subtract fractions, mixed numbers, and decimals accurately. They use common denominators, regroup when needed, align decimal points, and simplify answers.
What Mastery Looks Like: Students choose efficient methods, find common denominators when needed, and align decimals correctly. Their answers are accurate, simplified, and reasonable based on an estimate.
Common Misconceptions: Students may add denominators, line up decimal digits instead of decimal points, or ignore regrouping. They may also mishandle mixed numbers when subtraction requires renaming a whole.
How to Assess It: Give an exit ticket with 3/4 + 2/3, 4 1/5 − 2 3/4, and 6.08 − 2.9. Ask students to show one key step for each.

Lesson moves

Use fraction strips and decimal grids to model four problems, then connect each model to a written calculation.
Ask students to explain why adding denominators does not work when adding 2/3 and 1/4.
Play a partner card game where students draw two fractions or decimals, choose addition or subtraction, and check each other's work.
Plan a class party budget by adding item costs and subtracting the total from a fixed amount.

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