Math Project-Based Learning: Scaling & Resizing | 5th Grade

This 5-day project-based math resource applies math concepts in a real-world scenario to teach students about scaling and resizing by multiplying by fractions. In this 5-day unit, students will use their knowledge of scaling and resizing to build a birdhouse. 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:

• CSS.MATH.CONTENT.5.NF.B.5 Interpret multiplication as scaling (resizing), by:
• CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.5.NF.B.5.A Comparing the size of a product to the size of one factor on the basis of the size of the other factor, without performing the indicated multiplication.
• CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.5.NF.B.5.B Explaining why multiplying a given number by a fraction greater than 1 results in a product greater than the given number (recognizing multiplication by whole numbers greater than 1 as a familiar case); explaining why multiplying a given number by a fraction less than 1 results in a product smaller than the given number; and relating the principle of fraction equivalence a/b = (n √ó a)/(n √ó b) to the effect of multiplying a/b by 1.

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

What’s included in this resource:

• Background Knowledge: Using a KWL chart , students will build background knowledge around building a birdhouse.
• Fraction Concepts: Students will review how to interpret fractions.
• Multiplication Models: Students will review how multiplying changes the size of a product.
• What is Scaling?: Using the included instructional pages, students will learn about scaling and resizing, including how to find a scale factor.
• Determine Scale Factor: Using the learned concepts, students will determine an appropriate scale factor to use to resize the birdhouse design for various types of birds.
• Choose Birdhouse Designs: Students will choose birdhouse designs for 4 different types of birds.
• Comparing Products: Using the included instructional pages, students will learn how to predict the size of a product based on the factors.
• Comparing Birdhouses: Using the learned concepts, students will compare the size of their new birdhouses without multiplying.
• Multiplying Fractions: Students will review how to multiply fractions and mixed numbers.
• New Dimensions: Using the learned concepts, students will multiply by a scale factor to determine the new dimensions of each birdhouse design.
• Finalize Birdhouses: Students will make a visual plan of their final birdhouses, including the new dimensions.
• Wrap Up: Students will write complete a wrap up activity to review scaling and resizing concepts.

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