Mathematics5th Grade50 minutes
5th Grade Fractions Lesson Plan
Students explore adding fractions with unlike denominators using visual models before moving to the standard algorithm. The lesson includes a number talk warm-up, guided practice with fraction strips, and an exit ticket.
Learning Objectives
- Add fractions with unlike denominators using visual models.
- Find common denominators to solve addition problems.
- Explain their reasoning using mathematical vocabulary.
Warm-Up: Number Talk
7 min- Display 1/2 + 1/4 on the board. Ask students to solve mentally and share strategies with a partner.
- Collect 2–3 strategies on the board. Highlight how students found a common unit.
- Bridge to today's objective: adding fractions when the denominators are different.
Mini-Lesson: Finding Common Denominators
12 min- Model with fraction strips: show 1/3 + 1/6 by physically aligning strips.
- Ask: 'What do you notice about the sizes?' Guide students to see that sixths are the common unit.
- Record the standard algorithm alongside the visual: 2/6 + 1/6 = 3/6 = 1/2.
- Repeat with 2/5 + 1/10, asking students to predict the common denominator.
Guided Practice
12 min- Students work in pairs on 4 problems using fraction strips and recording sheets.
- Circulate and check: Are students finding the common denominator before adding?
- Pause after problem 2 for a mid-check: cold-call a pair to explain their strategy.
Independent Practice
12 min- Students complete 6 problems independently. Problems progress from visual-supported to abstract.
- Early finishers tackle a challenge problem: 3/8 + 2/5 (requires finding 40ths).
- Support table: teacher pulls a small group to work with manipulatives.
Closure & Exit Ticket
7 min- Whole-class: 'What is the first step when adding fractions with different denominators?'
- Exit ticket: Solve 1/4 + 2/3 and explain your steps in 1–2 sentences.
- Collect exit tickets to inform tomorrow's groupings.
Differentiation Notes
- Scaffold: Provide fraction strip kits and a common-denominator reference chart.
- Extension: Challenge problems with three addends or mixed numbers.
- ELL support: Vocabulary card with 'numerator,' 'denominator,' and 'common denominator' with visuals.
Assessment
- Student product: Exit ticket with one computation and a written explanation.
- Criteria: Correct common denominator, accurate sum, clear reasoning.
- Success indicator: 80% of students correctly solve and explain the exit ticket problem.
Teacher Tips
- Have fraction strip kits pre-cut and sorted before class to save setup time.
- If students struggle with the exit ticket, allow them to use fraction strips — the goal is reasoning, not memorization.
- Keep the number talk to 7 minutes max. It's a warm-up, not the main lesson.
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