Virginia SOL 5.NS.1.a

Math5th GradeNumber and Number Sense

The Standard

Use concrete and pictorial models to represent fractions with denominators that are thirds, eighths, and factors of 100 in their equivalent decimal form.*

Virginia Standards of Learning for Mathematics · The student will use reasoning and justification to identify and represent equivalency between fractions (with denominators that are thirds, eighths, and factors of 100) and decimals; and compare and order sets of fractions (proper, improper, and/or mixed numbers having denominators of 12 or less) and decimals (through thousandths). 

Teacher's field guide

What This Standard Means

What Students Need to Do

Students use fraction strips, grids, and number lines to connect fractions with decimal values. They represent terminating decimals and recognize the repeating pattern created by thirds.

What Mastery Looks Like

Students match shaded grids, fraction strips, and number lines to correct decimal values. They explain why eighths and factors of 100 terminate, while thirds produce repeating decimals.

Common Misconceptions

Students may write 3/8 as 0.38 by treating the numerator and denominator as decimal digits. They may also think 1/3 equals exactly 0.33 instead of a repeating decimal.

How to Assess It

Give an exit ticket: “Use a grid, strip, or number line to show 7/20, 3/8, and 2/3 as decimals. Mark any repeating decimal.”

Lesson moves

Ways to Teach It

  1. Fold paper strips into thirds and eighths, place them above a 0-to-1 decimal number line, and label each endpoint.

  2. Ask students to explain why 1/3 is not exactly 0.33, using a shaded strip or number line as evidence.

  3. Play a three-card match using fraction, decimal, and shaded-model cards for 2/5, 3/8, 7/20, and 2/3.

  4. Read recipe amounts of 1/3 and 3/8 cup, then mark their decimal locations on a one-cup measuring strip.

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Printable 5.NS.1.a Worksheet

Preview of the 5.NS.1.a printable worksheet

A ready-to-print activity worksheet aligned to 5.NS.1.a, with an answer key for the teacher on its own page. No account needed.

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