MATHEMATICS
In fifth grade, students build upon their understandings of the base ten system and
operations with whole numbers to create new understandings and efficiencies for
operations (including standard algorithms) with multi-digit whole numbers, decimals,
and fractions. Their work with decimals includes comparing, rounding, and solving
problems using all four operations. Students also spend a considerable amount of
time engaging with fractions including adding and subtracting with unlike
denominators, multiplication, and the beginnings of division.
Geometric topics move from sorting shapes based on common attributes to creating
hierarchies. For example, students will be able to articulate why all squares are
rectangles but not all rectangles are squares which is reasoning students will use in
later courses including high school geometry. An additional geometric topic developed
in fifth grade is the concept of volume which builds from experiences with area in third
and fourth grades. Students also integrate geometric ideas with other concepts such
as length and distance to make sense of and utilize the coordinate system to solve
both geometric and algebraic problems. As in all mathematics courses, the Standards
for Mathematical Practice are the “processes and proficiencies” by which all other
mathematics standards are taught.
BRIDGES IN MATHEMATICS RESOURCE
Elementary students across the district are developing mathematical mindsets
through the implementation of our new comprehensive K–5 curriculum resource,
Bridges in Mathematics.
In Bridges classrooms, students play an active role in their own learning as well as in
the classroom community. They talk about math by sharing observations, explaining
their thinking, and asking questions; use hands-on activities, along with a variety of
math tools and visual models, to understand how mathematical concepts work; build
stamina for solving complex problems that require perseverance; and play games in
small groups to have fun practicing what they learn.
Bridges also offers families support through their website: Bridges Family Support.
Here, parents and caregivers can access general information, including an overview,
frequently asked questions, and specific support by grade level.
Math Standards
The Mathematical Strands are the end of year goals for 5th grade children. Although it
is understood that children develop at different rates, the goal is that students will be
able to demonstrate competency in these areas:
Operations and Algebraic Thinking
Write and interpret numerical expressions.
Use parentheses, brackets, or basics.
Analyze patterns and relationships.
Generate and compare 2 numerical patterns.
Use coordinate pairs to construct line graphs.
Number and Operations in Base Ten
Understand whole numbers, decimal place value system and powers of 10 as it
relates to place value (including expanded form, standard and exponential
notation).
Explain patterns when multiplying and dividing numbers by powers of 10.
Read, write, and compare decimals to thousandths.
Use place value to round decimals.
Perform operations with multi-digit whole numbers and with decimals to
hundredths.
Fluently multiply multi-digit whole numbers using the standard algorithm.
Find quotients of whole numbers with up to four-digit dividends and two-digit
divisors.
Add, subtract, multiply, and divide decimals to hundredths.
Number and Operations – Fractions
Use equivalent fractions as a strategy to add and subtract fractions.
Add and subtract fractions and mixed numbers with unlike denominators.
Solve word problems involving addition and subtraction of fractions.
Apply and extend previous understanding of multiplication and division to
multiply and divide fractions.
Interpret fractions as division.
Multiply a fraction by a whole number.
Multiply a fraction by a fraction.
Explain the relationship between the factor and a product.
Solve real world problems using fractions and mixed numbers.
Interpret division of a unit fraction by a whole number.
Interpret division of a whole number by a unit fraction.
Measurement and Data
Convert like measurement units within a given measurement system.
Represent and interpret data, including fractions, using a line plot.
Geometric measurement: understand concepts of volume and retake volume to
multiplication and to addition.
Understand concepts of volume measurement.
Use the appropriate units for measurement of volume.
Find the volume of geometric solids using multiplication and addition.
Use formulas to find volume of a solid.
Graph points on a coordinate plane to solve real-world and mathematical
problems.
Plot ordered pairs.
Understand attributes of two-dimensional figures and classify two-dimensional
figures into categories based on their properties.