Real World Fraction Problems Math Games

In this series of games, your students will learn to solve word problems involving addition and subtraction of fractions referring to the same whole, including cases of unlike denominators. The Real World Fraction Problems learning objective — based on CCSS and state standards — delivers improved student engagement and academic performance in your classroom, as demonstrated by research. This learning objective directly references 5.NF.A.2 as written in the common core national math standards.

Scroll down for a preview of this learning objective’s games and the concepts.

Concepts Covered

In order to add or subtract fractions, the denominators (or size of the parts of a whole) need to be the same size. Finding the equivalent fractions with common denominators does not change the value of either fraction. In order to add or subtract fractions with unlike denominators, you must find equivalent fractions with the same denominator. To find equivalent fractions, you must multiply by a fraction that is equal to one whole. Once equivalent fractions are made, only the numerators are added or subtracted. The denominators remain the same for the sum or difference of the fractions.

In order to add or subtract fractions, both fractions will need to be changed to have common denominators. To find the sum or difference of fractions with unlike denominators, finding the Least Common Denominator (LCD) is not necessary. Students may use the method of multiplying the numerator and denominator by the unlike fraction’s denominator. Fractions can be proper, improper (greater than one whole), or mixed numbers for addition or subtraction. Understand that the size of units changes by creating equivalent fractions. Use number sense of fractions to determine the answer rather than computing exact sums.

A preview of each game in the learning objective is found below.

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