Math3-5

Adding and Subtracting Fractions Word Problems for Grade 5

By Jeanene S.

A short practice set of two-to-three step fraction story problems for 5th graders, built around a baker's sugar scenario with fraction bar models. Students practice finding common denominators, adding and subtracting fractions, and simplifying answers, with a worked example to model the process first.

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Teacher Guide & Tips

Use the worked example as a whole-class model before students attempt the problems independently, ideally in a 30-45 minute math block.
Discussion question: Why do we need a common denominator before we can subtract 1/3 and 1/6 from 3/4, and what would happen if we skipped that step?
Scaffold for struggling readers: have students draw and shade the twelfths bars themselves, then count the remaining parts to check their numeric answer.
Extension for advanced students: ask them to write their own two-step recipe problem that requires adding one ingredient amount and subtracting another, then trade with a partner.
Estimated time: about 10 minutes for the worked example and 20-30 minutes for independent or partner practice.

Math3-5

Adding and Subtracting Fractions Word Problems for Grade 5

By Jeanene S.

Open in Diffit

Customize for your classroom

Teacher Guide & Tips

Use the worked example as a whole-class model before students attempt the problems independently, ideally in a 30-45 minute math block.
Discussion question: Why do we need a common denominator before we can subtract 1/3 and 1/6 from 3/4, and what would happen if we skipped that step?
Scaffold for struggling readers: have students draw and shade the twelfths bars themselves, then count the remaining parts to check their numeric answer.
Extension for advanced students: ask them to write their own two-step recipe problem that requires adding one ingredient amount and subtracting another, then trade with a partner.
Estimated time: about 10 minutes for the worked example and 20-30 minutes for independent or partner practice.

Teacher Guide & Tips

Use the worked example as a whole-class model before students attempt the problems independently, ideally in a 30-45 minute math block.

Discussion question: Why do we need a common denominator before we can subtract 1/3 and 1/6 from 3/4, and what would happen if we skipped that step?

Scaffold for struggling readers: have students draw and shade the twelfths bars themselves, then count the remaining parts to check their numeric answer.

Extension for advanced students: ask them to write their own two-step recipe problem that requires adding one ingredient amount and subtracting another, then trade with a partner.

Estimated time: about 10 minutes for the worked example and 20-30 minutes for independent or partner practice.

Teacher Guide & Tips

Use the worked example as a whole-class model before students attempt the problems independently, ideally in a 30-45 minute math block.

Discussion question: Why do we need a common denominator before we can subtract 1/3 and 1/6 from 3/4, and what would happen if we skipped that step?

Scaffold for struggling readers: have students draw and shade the twelfths bars themselves, then count the remaining parts to check their numeric answer.

Extension for advanced students: ask them to write their own two-step recipe problem that requires adding one ingredient amount and subtracting another, then trade with a partner.

Estimated time: about 10 minutes for the worked example and 20-30 minutes for independent or partner practice.