Equal-size parts and whole units
Review equivalence, calculate with like denominators, and begin unlike-denominator arithmetic.
Before lesson B, try Mixed numbers: unlike denominators and Fraction word problems separately if those ideas are new.
6 skills · Examples & practice
Add and subtract fractions
Combine equal-size parts, regroup whole units, and apply fraction calculations to short stories.
Choose your first topic
- 1
Add and subtract like fractions
Add and subtract fractions with like denominators, including results greater than one.
Builds on: Decompose fractions - 2
Mixed numbers: like denominators
Rename a mixed number and use equal-size parts to add or subtract mixed numbers.
Builds on: Whole numbers as fractions, Add and subtract like fractions - 3
Estimate fraction answers
Choose a justified range for a fraction sum or difference and explain the benchmark used.
Builds on: Compare familiar fractions, Compare unlike fractions, Add and subtract like fractions - 4
Add and subtract unlike fractions
Add and subtract unlike fractions and use an estimate to check the result.
Builds on: Make equivalent fractions, Add and subtract like fractions, Estimate fraction answers - 5
Mixed numbers: unlike denominators
Add and subtract mixed numbers with unlike denominators, including regrouping.
Builds on: Mixed numbers: like denominators, Add and subtract unlike fractions - 6
Fraction word problems
Solve addition and subtraction stories with fractions or mixed numbers and consistent measurement units.
Builds on: Estimate fraction answers, Add and subtract unlike fractions, Mixed numbers: unlike denominators
Come back to the idea
Two short review lessons.
Return to lesson B after practicing the individual skills. Keep a paper note of which explanation you want to revisit.
Use calculations in new situations
Revisit the calculation methods, then choose and explain an operation in a story.
Choose a fresh review set or revisit the particular step that needed help. Ask the learner to explain the result with its unit.
Print your learning checklist.
Print this simple path card. Tick off the ideas you have tried, and circle one to revisit. No score or name needed.
Download checklist“Ask for an estimate first. Then ask what each denominator means and where every regrouped whole went.”