MiChelle Kollmann

Edtech 506

Unit of Instruction- Fractions

Adding and Subtracting Fractions
1. Adding and Subtracting Fractions are two of the seven standards in Numbers
and Operations Fractions which fifth grade students are expected to master by
the end of the year. The two major parts in Numbers and Operations Fractions
included adding and subtracting fractions and multiplying and dividing
fractions.
2. California Common Core Standards
5.OA.A2.1 Express a whole number in the range 250 as a product of its
prime factors. For example, find the prime factors of 24 and express 24 as 2
2 2 3. CA
5.NF.1 Add and subtract fractions with unlike denominators (including mixed
numbers) by replacing given fractions with equivalent fractions in such a way
as to produce an equivalent sum or difference of fractions with like
denominators. For example, 2/3 + 5/4 = 8/12 + 15/12 = 23/12. (In general,
a/b + c/d = (ad + bc)/bd.)
5.NF.2 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.
3. Student Characteristics- Students are in the fifth grade enrolled in a fifth/sixth
grade classroom. The classroom is split 20 fifth to 11 sixth graders. Students all
read on or slightly below fifth grade level. The majority are second language
students, however they are fluent English speakers. Students are eager to learn
and enjoy technology enhanced lessons. Students are grouped in fours
combining more active students with passive students encouraging students to
learn to collaborate with diverse personalities.
4. Prerequisites and Prior Knowledge- This will be the second, and for some
students the third, year of the common core standards in math. Students should
come with a basic knowledge of adding and subtracting fractions and
equivalent fractions. Students should have basic multiplication facts
memorized, however, facts will be reviewed and studied in weeks prior to this
unit. Students have worked on chrome books in classes for two years prior.
They are familiar with Chromebook and google basics.

5. Since both fifth and sixth grades share a classroom, the room is visually split
into two groups. Students sit in heterogeneous groups of four. Students often
regroup for projects by physically moving to a new desk or another area of the
classroom. Each student is assigned a Chromebook to use during class.

5
5
5

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5

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Fifth Graders

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Sixth Graders

6. Introductory Procedures- Instructor will begin with a hands on lesson allowing

students to explore with Skittles candy. Students will name the colors as
fractions followed by adding or subtracting their colors from others. Standards
will then be introduced and posted throughout the unit.
7. Materials and Media
Chromebook- access to google drive and internet resources
Math book and workbook- practice problems and p
Manipulatives (physical and virtual) Front Row- online math practice
Various math videos including Math Antics, Learnzillion, and Kahn- concept
support
White Boards- checking for understanding, informal formative assessment
Vocabulary cards- online or student made
8. Graphics
Prime and Composite Numbers- a visual representation of the difference
between prime and composite numbers which will help students find a
common denominator.
Numerator, Denominator, Proper and Improper Fractions- vocabulary used in
while working with fractions. Students must use appropriate names for parts
of the fraction.
Equivalent Fractions- a visual representation of how the numbers of fractions
can be different, yet equal.
Adding Fractions- demonstrate the process, define the steps.
Subtracting Fractions- demonstrate the process, define the steps.
Adding Mixed Fractions- demonstrate the process for including whole
numbers with fractions with a visual representation.

Renaming Mixed Fractions- demonstrate renaming a fraction to create an

improper fraction.
Subtracting Mixed Fractions- demonstrate the process for including whole
numbers with fractions with a visual representation.

9. Assessment and evaluation of learner understanding- Checking for

understanding throughout lessons, exit tickets and quizzes for formative
assessment. Pretest given to establish prior knowledge and posttest given as
summative assessment.
10.Assessments will measure students knowledge of prime and composite
numbers, renaming mixed numbers, and adding and subtracting fractions with
mixed numbers and unlike denominators. At the end of the unit students should
be able to add and subtract fractions with mixed numbers and unlike
denominators.

* Adapted from Unit Plan at

http://edtech.tennessee.edu/~bobannon/unit_plans.html