Unit Plan 9 (Grade 5 Math): Writing & Interpreting Numerical Expressions
5th graders learn to use parentheses, brackets, and braces to write and interpret numerical expressions. Students translate between word statements and equations, analyze structure without computing, and explain how grouping symbols change meaning with precision and reasoning.
Focus: Use parentheses ( ), brackets [ ], and braces { }; translate between word statements and numerical expressions; interpret and compare expressions by analyzing structure (not just computing).
Grade Level: 5
Subject Area: Mathematics (Operations & Algebraic Thinking — Numerical Expressions)
Total Unit Duration: 5 sessions (one week), 45–60 minutes per session
I. Introduction
Students learn to read, write, and reason about expressions with grouping symbols. They translate verbal descriptions into numerical expressions, decide which grouping communicates the intended meaning, and interpret what an expression represents without necessarily evaluating. Throughout, they analyze structure to discuss how expressions are built and how grouping changes the result.
Essential Questions
- How do grouping symbols change the meaning of a numerical expression?
- How can I translate everyday language into a clear numerical expression?
- What does it mean to interpret an expression without evaluating it?
- How can I compare two expressions and explain which would be larger (or how they differ) using structure?
II. Objectives and Standards
Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:
- Translate word statements into numerical expressions using appropriate grouping symbols.
- Use, nest, and explain parentheses ( ), brackets [ ], and braces { } to show intended order of operations.
- Interpret expressions without evaluating (describe the operations and groupings and what they represent).
- Compare expressions by reasoning about structure (which part is added/multiplied first, effect on magnitude).
- Communicate reasoning with precise vocabulary, clear notation, and organized work.
Standards Alignment — CCSS Grade 5
- 5.OA.1: Use parentheses, brackets, or braces in numerical expressions, and evaluate expressions with these symbols.
- 5.OA.2: Write simple expressions that record calculations with numbers, and interpret numerical expressions without evaluating them.
- Mathematical Practices emphasized: MP.1 (make sense), MP.3 (justify/critique), MP.6 (precision), MP.7 (look for structure), MP.8 (regularity).
Success Criteria — Student Language
- I can write a numerical expression from a word statement and choose the right grouping.
- I can explain what an expression means without computing the final value.
- I can use ( ), [ ], and { } correctly, including nested groupings.
- I can compare two expressions and tell which is greater (or how they differ) using structure.
- I can check my work for clear notation and order of operations.