Fractions — 5th Grade Lesson
Students will add, subtract, multiply, and divide fractions, including mixed numbers and unlike denominators.
5th Grade · Fractions · ~30 min lesson
The big 5th grade move: unlike denominators
To add or subtract fractions, they must have the same denominator. When they don’t, rename one or both using equivalent fractions.
1/2 + 1/4 → 1/2 = 2/4 → 2/4 + 1/4 = 3/4
Mixed numbers and improper fractions
- Improper fraction: numerator ≥ denominator (7/2).
- Mixed number: a whole number plus a fraction (3 1/2).
To convert: 7/2 → 2 goes into 7 three times, 1 left over → 3 1/2.
Multiplying fractions
Multiply across: top × top, bottom × bottom. Simplify if possible.
1/2 × 1/3 = 1/6
Multiplying a fraction by a whole number
Turn the whole number into a fraction over 1, then multiply.
10 × 1/2 = 10/1 × 1/2 = 5
Dividing fractions (keep-change-flip)
Keep the first fraction, change ÷ to ×, flip the second.
3/4 ÷ 1/2 = 3/4 × 2/1 = 6/4 = 3/2 (1 1/2)
Simplifying answers
Always simplify or convert to a mixed number at the end.
6/4 → 3/2 → 1 1/2
How to practice at home
- Recipe fractions: double a recipe and add the fraction amounts.
- Pizza problems with different-size slices (unlike denominators).
- Fraction of a number with real objects.
- Keep-change-flip chant for division.
Practice with the exercises above, then download these free printable worksheets:
Practice Exercises
Try these on your own, then reveal the answer to check.
What is 1/2 + 1/4?
💡 Rename 1/2 as 2/4, then 2/4 + 1/4 = 3/4.
What is 1/2 × 1/3?
💡 Multiply across: top × top, bottom × bottom.
What is 3/4 ÷ 1/2?
💡 Keep-change-flip: 3/4 × 2/1 = 6/4.
Change 7/2 to a mixed number.
💡 2 goes into 7 three times with 1 left over.
What is 1/2 of 10?
💡 Multiply 10 × 1/2.
What is 2/3 + 1/6?
💡 Rename 2/3 as 4/6, then 4/6 + 1/6 = 5/6.
Printable Worksheets
Put this lesson into practice with free, printable worksheets — each with an answer key.
Before You Start
- 4th grade fractions (like denominators, equivalents)
- Multiplication and division of whole numbers
Common Mistakes to Watch For
- Adding numerators AND denominators when denominators differ
- Forgetting to flip the second fraction when dividing
What to Learn Next
Browse more Fractions worksheets or explore all 5th Grade worksheets.
Related Worksheets
Adding Fractions with Unlike Denominators Worksheet
Add fractions with different denominators by rewriting them over a common denominator first.
Subtracting Fractions with Unlike Denominators Worksheet
Subtract fractions with different denominators by rewriting them over a common denominator first.
Mixed Numbers and Improper Fractions Worksheet
Convert improper fractions to mixed numbers and back, keeping the denominator the same.
Multiplying Fractions Worksheet
Multiply fractions by multiplying the numerators and the denominators, then simplifying when you can.
Dividing Fractions Worksheet (Unit Fractions)
Divide unit fractions by whole numbers, and whole numbers by unit fractions, using what division means.
Adding Fractions with Like Denominators Worksheet
Add fractions that share a denominator by adding the top numbers and keeping the bottom number the same.
Multiplying Fractions by Whole Numbers Worksheet
Multiply a fraction by a whole number by multiplying the numerator and keeping the denominator.
Frequently Asked Questions
What fractions does a 5th grader learn?
Adding and subtracting fractions with unlike denominators, mixed numbers and improper fractions, and multiplying and dividing fractions by whole numbers and other fractions.
How do I add fractions with unlike denominators?
Rename one or both fractions so they have a common denominator, then add the numerators. For 1/2 + 1/4: 1/2 = 2/4, so 2/4 + 1/4 = 3/4.
Original & reviewed. Every worksheet is created in-house from a grade-level skill brief, checked for a correct answer key, and reviewed for grade-appropriateness. Our editorial policy.