Teaching Resource

Castles Made of Sand - The Competition - Fraction Subtraction

In Mathematics ... Fractional Operations

PDF | 12 pages|Grade: 5

A teacher-faciliated problem solving introduction to fraction subtraction.

While Alan and Ada Ant build sandcastles, students develop a conceptual understanding of fraction subtraction. They use strip diagrams, find common denominators, and adjust partitioning to create fractions with a common denominator.

5 problems include fractions with different denominators.

Use with the whole class to introduce or practice fraction addition or during tutoring or intervention.

This activity includes clear and concise teacher directions and Think Aloud questions, a detailed answer key, and conversation starters that give students what they need to have meaningful academic discussions.

A companion activity, Castles Made of Sand – Brother and Sister, deals primarily with addition.

Common Core

Common Core Curriculum alignment

CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.5.NF.A.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...
In Grade 5 Standards for Mathematical Practice Number & Operations - Fractions Use equivalent fractions as a strategy to add and subtract fractions
CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.5.NF.A.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 s...
In Grade 5 Standards for Mathematical Practice Number & Operations - Fractions Use equivalent fractions as a strategy to add and subtract fractions

Published by TeachTransform
TeachTransform creates fun math activities that get students involved in real math. We bring decades of education experience to the task, and we believe that students learn best when teachers and students are having fun.

Find more resources for these topics

Mathematics Fractions, Decimals, and Percentages Operations Addition Subtraction Problem Solving Numbers Solve Number and Operations Fractional Operations Worksheets Task Cards Word Problems Math Center Activities Guided Math Activities Small Group

Grade 5

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