Math Project-Based Learning: Dividing with Unit Fractions | 5th Grade

This 5-day project-based math resource applies math concepts in a real-world scenario to teach students about dividing with unit fractions. In this 5-day unit, students will use their knowledge of dividing with unit fractions to paint a mural. This math project is engaging and authentic. Plus, it’s available as both a digital and print resource.

This project-based math resource is aligned with the following 5th Grade Math Common Core State Standards:

CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.5.NF.B.7
Apply and extend previous understandings of division to divide unit fractions by whole numbers and whole numbers by unit fractions.1

CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.5.NF.B.7.A
Interpret division of a unit fraction by a non-zero whole number, and compute such quotients. For example, create a story context for (1/3) √∑ 4, and use a visual fraction model to show the quotient. Use the relationship between multiplication and division to explain that (1/3) √∑ 4 = 1/12 because (1/12) √ó 4 = 1/3.

CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.5.NF.B.7.B
Interpret division of a whole number by a unit fraction, and compute such quotients. For example, create a story context for 4 √∑ (1/5), and use a visual fraction model to show the quotient. Use the relationship between multiplication and division to explain that 4 √∑ (1/5) = 20 because 20 √ó (1/5) = 4.

CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.5.NF.B.7.C
Solve real world problems involving division of unit fractions by non-zero whole numbers and division of whole numbers by unit fractions, e.g., by using visual fraction models and equations to represent the problem. For example, how much chocolate will each person get if 3 people share 1/2 lb of chocolate equally? How many 1/3-cup servings are in 2 cups of raisins?

This resource is available in both Printable & Digital Google Slides versions.

What’s included in this resource:

• Background Knowledge: Students will build background knowledge around murals and brainstorm ideas for their mural design.
• Important Vocabulary: Students will review vocabulary related to fractions and division.
• Division Models: Students will review visual models of dividing fractions.
• Divide by Unit Fractions: Using the included instructional pages, students will learn how to divide a whole number by a unit fraction using a visual model.
• Choose Mural Locations: Students will choose an appropriate community location for the mural.
• Mural Sections: Using the strategies for dividing by fractions, students will divide their mural into vertical sections.
• Mural Draft: Students will create a mural draft using the vertical divisions.
• Divide by Whole Numbers: Using the included instructional pages, students will learn how to divide a unit fraction by a whole number using a visual model.
• Add Color: Students will add color to their mural design.
• Paint Cups: Using the strategies for dividing fractions, students will divide their paint into an appropriate number of paint cups based on the mural design.
• Specialty Color: Students will choose a speciality paint color to use on their mural design and mix paint accordingly.
• Finalize Mural Title: Students will create a title for their mural using the specialty paint color.
• Purchase Sealant: Students will choose a sealant to cover their mural design, using division to ensure it will cover the entire mural.
• Finalize Mural Design: Students will create finalized version of their mural design.
• Wrap Up: Students will write complete a wrap up activity to review their mural plan.

***************************************************************************