Unit Plan 36 (Grade 5 Math): Cumulative Synthesis & Exhibition
5th graders integrate skills from all math domains to solve real-world, multi-step problems. They plan, model, compute, and defend reasoning with accurate units, precise language, and clear visual representations.
Focus: Show what you know with integrated tasks blending NBT, NF, OA, MD, and G; students present and defend reasoning with clear models, units, and explanations.
Grade Level: 5
Subject Area: Mathematics (Comprehensive Spiral)
Total Unit Duration: 5 sessions (one week), 45–60 minutes per session
I. Introduction
This capstone week lets students apply the year’s learning in authentic, multi-step problems that cut across place value/decimals (NBT), fractions (NF), expressions & patterns (OA), measurement/data (MD), and geometry (G). Teams design solutions, justify methods, and exhibit their work to peers.
Essential Questions
- How do I choose the most efficient strategy across multiple domains?
- What counts as evidence when defending a mathematical decision?
- How do representations (tables, graphs, diagrams, equations, models) strengthen a clear mathematical argument?
II. Objectives and Standards
Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:
- Tackle multi-step, real-world problems requiring combined skills from 5.OA, 5.NBT, 5.NF, 5.MD, 5.G.
- Select and justify efficient strategies (e.g., equivalent fractions vs. decimals, unit conversions vs. scaling).
- Use representations (diagrams, number lines, coordinate graphs, line plots, volume sketches) to support claims.
- Communicate with precision: correct units, labels, and reasonableness checks.
- Present and defend solutions using mathematical language, responding to questions and counterexamples.
Standards Alignment — CCSS Grade 5 (spiral across the unit)
- 5.OA: Write/interpret numerical expressions; analyze patterns and relationships.
- 5.NBT: Place value patterns; decimal operations; powers of ten.
- 5.NF: Add/subtract/multiply/divide fractions (including mixed numbers) and apply in context.
- 5.MD: Conversions, line plots with fractional units, volume formulas and additive reasoning.
- 5.G: Coordinate plane (first quadrant) and classification/attribute reasoning.
- Mathematical Practices (MP.1–MP.8) threaded throughout.
Success Criteria — Student Language
- I can plan a multi-step solution, show models, and explain why it works.
- I can choose fractions or decimals strategically and keep units accurate.
- I can present my thinking and answer questions using math vocabulary and evidence.