Unit Plan 27 (Grade 5 Math): Decimal & Whole-Number Operations Review
5th graders solve multi-step real-world problems using multiplication, division, and decimals. They plan with parentheses, estimate before computing, and check answers for reasonableness and precision.
Focus: Tackle multi-step problems mixing multiplication/division and decimal operations, using parentheses to structure work and estimation checks to verify reasonableness.
Grade Level: 5
Subject Area: Mathematics (Number & Operations in Base Ten; Operations & Algebraic Thinking)
Total Unit Duration: 5 sessions (one week), 45–60 minutes per session
I. Introduction
This review unit weaves together multi-digit multiplication, whole-number division, and decimal computation in realistic, multi-step contexts. Students decide which operation comes first, use parentheses to record a plan, and check results with front-end estimation, compatible numbers, and benchmarks. Emphasis is on strategy, precision, and communicating steps clearly.
Essential Questions
- How do I decide the order of operations in a multi-step real-world problem?
- How do estimation and benchmarks help me check whether an exact answer is reasonable?
- How do I communicate my plan with parentheses and clear labels/units?
II. Objectives and Standards
Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:
- Multiply multi-digit whole numbers fluently and explain strategy choices (area model vs standard algorithm).
- Divide whole numbers (up to 2-digit divisors), interpret remainders in context, and choose sensible rounding.
- Add, subtract, multiply, and divide decimals to hundredths using place-value reasoning and estimation.
- Translate word problems into numerical expressions with parentheses; explain what the expression means.
- Solve multi-step problems and include an estimation check and a brief reasonableness statement.
Standards Alignment — CCSS Grade 5
- 5.NBT.5: Fluently multiply multi-digit whole numbers using the standard algorithm.
- 5.NBT.6: Find whole-number quotients with up to four-digit dividends and two-digit divisors; interpret remainders.
- 5.NBT.7: Add, subtract, multiply, and divide decimals to hundredths using models and place-value strategies; relate strategies to written methods.
- 5.OA.1: Use parentheses, brackets, braces in numerical expressions, and evaluate expressions.
Success Criteria — Student Language
- I can choose operations and write an expression with parentheses that matches the situation.
- I can multiply and divide accurately and explain remainders or rounding based on the context.
- I can compute with decimals and keep place value lined up.
- I can estimate first and check after to confirm my answer makes sense.