Lesson Plan: Adding and Subtracting Fractions and Mixed Numbers
Subject: Mathematics
Grade: 5
Duration: 30 Minutes
Objective
Students will be able to add and subtract fractions and mixed numbers with like and unlike denominators, using visual models to support their reasoning.
Materials Needed
- Whiteboard and markers
- Fraction circles or bars
- Paper and pencils
- Worksheets for practice
- Homework assignment handouts
Standards
This lesson aligns with the Common Core State Standards for Mathematics:
- 5.NF.A.1: Explain why fractions are equivalent (e.g., by using visual fraction models).
- 5.NF.A.2: Compare two fractions with different numerators and different denominators.
Introduction (5 Minutes)
-
Begin with a brief review of fractions:
- What is a fraction?
- What are the components of a fraction (numerator and denominator)?
-
Introduce the concept of mixed numbers:
- Define mixed numbers and how they differ from improper fractions.
Direct Instruction (10 Minutes)
-
Explain how to add fractions with like denominators:
- Use examples to show that you only add the numerators while keeping the denominator the same.
- Example: ( \frac{2}{5} + \frac{1}{5} = \frac{3}{5} )
-
Demonstrate adding fractions with unlike denominators:
- Use a common denominator, and then add.
- Example: ( \frac{1}{4} + \frac{1}{2} )
- Find a common denominator (4): ( \frac{1}{2} = \frac{2}{4} )
- Now add: ( \frac{1}{4} + \frac{2}{4} = \frac{3}{4} )
-
Explain how to subtract fractions with like denominators:
- Similar to addition, just subtract the numerators.
- Example: ( \frac{3}{5} - \frac{1}{5} = \frac{2}{5} )
-
Illustrate subtraction with unlike denominators.
- Use the same method as for addition (finding a common denominator).
- Example: ( \frac{3}{4} - \frac{1}{2} )
- Convert ( \frac{1}{2} ) to ( \frac{2}{4} )
- Now subtract: ( \frac{3}{4} - \frac{2}{4} = \frac{1}{4} )
-
Discuss mixed numbers:
- Show how to add and subtract mixed numbers by converting them to improper fractions and vice versa if needed.
Guided Practice (10 Minutes)
-
Work together on a few example problems from the board:
- ( \frac{2}{3} + \frac{1}{6} )
- Find a common denominator, add, and simplify.
- ( \frac{5}{8} - \frac{1}{4} )
- Again, find a common denominator, subtract, and simplify.
- ( 2 \frac{1}{3} + 1 \frac{1}{6} )
- Convert mixed numbers to improper fractions, add, and convert back if needed.
-
Encourage students to ask questions and clarify any misunderstandings.
Independent Practice (5 Minutes)
- Distribute worksheets for additional practice. Students will solve:
- ( \frac{3}{5} + \frac{1}{10} )
- ( \frac{7}{12} - \frac{1}{4} )
- ( 1 \frac{2}{3} + 2 \frac{1}{6} )
- ( 3 \frac{3}{4} - 1 \frac{1}{2} )
Closing (2 Minutes)
- Review key points of the lesson.
- Ask students if they have any questions regarding adding and subtracting fractions and mixed numbers.
- Reinforce the importance of finding common denominators and proper simplification.
Homework Assignment
Students are to complete the following problems for homework:
- Add: ( \frac{5}{6} + \frac{1}{3} )
- Subtract: ( \frac{4}{5} - \frac{1}{5} )
- Add: ( 2 \frac{1}{4} + 3 \frac{2}{3} )
- Subtract: ( 5 \frac{5}{6} - 2 \frac{1}{2} )
Answers:
- ( \frac{5}{6} + \frac{1}{3} = \frac{7}{6} ) (or ( 1 \frac{1}{6} ))
- ( \frac{4}{5} - \frac{1}{5} = \frac{3}{5} )
- ( 2 \frac{1}{4} + 3 \frac{2}{3} = 5 \frac{11}{12} )
- ( 5 \frac{5}{6} - 2 \frac{1}{2} = 3 \frac{1}{3} )
Reflection
- Consider what went well during the lesson and what could be improved for next time.
- Assess students’ understanding based on their participation and the results of their independent practice and homework assignments.