5.NF.2 - About the Math, Learning Targets, and Rigor

Grade 4 G/T Fractions

5.NF.2

Full Standard

Solve word problems involving addition and subtraction of fractions referring to the same whole, including cases of unlike denominators (e.g., by using visual fraction models or equations to represent the problem). Use benchmark fractions and number sense of fractions to estimate mentally and assess the reasonableness of answers. For example, recognize an incorrect result 2/5 + 1/2 = 3/7, by observing that 3/7 < 1/2.

 

Learning Targets (I can)

  • Represent problems using physical models, drawings, and equations.
  • Explain why addition or subtraction is needed to solve a problem.
  • Add and subtract to solve word problems.
  • Write an equation to solve a word problem.
  • Connect written equations to components of the word problem.
  • Estimate to determine the reasonableness of a solution.

 

About the Math 

  • Represent problems using physical models, drawings, and equations.

As students represent problems with pictures, models, and/or equations they must connect them back to the problem. Using bar diagrams to make sense of a problem is worthwhile. However, other representations are needed to make sense of the computation.

  • Explain why addition or subtraction is needed to solve a problem.

Students should work with addition and subtraction problems of all problem types including result unknown, change unknown, and start unknown. Students should explain which operation is needed to solve the problem and why. Students should be able to connect the problem to their equation.

  • Add and subtract to solve word problems.

Students use their understanding of addition and subtraction of fractions to solve problems. It is important to note that students do not have to show procedural understanding of addition and subtraction of fractions to work with problems. Instead, problems should be used to introduce and reinforce these concepts as they provide a context for understanding.

  • Write an equation to solve a word problem.
  • Connect written equations to components of the word problem.

As noted throughout elementary mathematics, students must be able to write equations to represent problems. Students should write equations that align to the problem and the problem type. 

  • Estimate to determine the reasonableness of a solution.

Estimating results of computations with whole numbers or fractions cannot be overemphasized. It develops understanding and the ability to determine if solutions to problems and calculations are reasonable. Students should estimate sums and differences of fractions using benchmarks and other strategies. For example, students should be able to explain that 3/4 + 2/3 is more than one whole because both fractions are more than one-half.

 

 

 

Progression of Standard within Grade 4 G/T

This progression informs how to develop the standard within the grade level. This progression is provided by HCPSS Elementary Mathematics.

Progression Throughout Year
Quarter 1 Quarter 2 Quarter 3 Quarter 4
  • Represent problems using physical models, drawings, and equations.
  • Explain why addition or subtraction is needed to solve a problem.
  • Add and subtract to solve word problems.
  • Write an equation to solve a word problem.
  • Connect written equations to components of the word problem.
  • Estimate to determine the reasonableness of a solution.

 

    

 

Progression of this Standard Across Grades

This progression is informed by the Achieve the Core Coherence Map Links to an external site.. Information is not the complete standard.

Progression Across Grades
Grade 4 Grade 6
  • Equivalent fractions (4.NF.1)
  • Decomposing fractions/adding and subtracting fractions (4.NF.3)
  • Recognizing statistical questions (6.SP.1) 
  • Distribution of data (6.SP.2)
  • Display data in plots on number lines, dot plots, histograms, and box plots (6.SP.4)
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