Overview

This four-day unit integrates 5th grade mathematics (adding fractions with unlike denominators) and science standards (physical science phenomenon of mixtures and solutions) to deepen conceptual understanding. Students will explore fractions through real-world problem solving connected to science phenomena, enriching their mastery and engagement.

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Day 1: Introduction to Adding Fractions & Mixtures

Common Core Standards

• Mathematics: 5.NF.A.1 - Add and subtract fractions with unlike denominators by creating equivalent fractions to produce like denominators.
• Science: 5-PS1-4 - Conduct investigations to determine whether mixing substances results in new substances.
• New SC Math Standard: 5.PAFR.2.1 - Add fractions with unlike denominators correctly applying strategies.

Learning Objectives

• I can add fractions with unlike denominators using equivalent fractions.
• I can describe what a mixture is and identify examples.

Materials

• Fraction strips or fraction circle manipulatives
• Clear cups, water, sand, sugar, oil
• Science vocabulary cards (mixture, solution, dissolve, sediment, solute, solvent)
• Whiteboard and markers

Success Criteria

• I can find a common denominator to add fractions correctly.
• I can explain the difference between a mixture and a solution using examples.

Activities

1. Engage (10 min):
   Demonstrate mixing sugar into water vs sand into water. Discuss observations to introduce vocabulary (mixture, solution, dissolve).
2. Explore (15 min):
   Use fraction strips to model adding 1/4 + 1/3. Guide students to find common denominators and add fractions step-by-step.
3. Explain (15 min):
   Present the "I can" statements and success criteria. Write sample fraction addition problems modeled on quantities in mixtures (e.g., 1/4 cup sugar + 1/3 cup salt).
4. Elaborate (15 min, small groups):
   Students practice adding fractions related to mixture quantities with teacher support. Highlight science vocabulary with each problem.
5. Evaluate (5 min):
   Exit ticket: Solve 1/6 + 1/2 and write one sentence describing a mixture.

Differentiation

• Provide fraction visuals and manipulatives for struggling students.
• Challenge advanced learners to convert improper fractions in addition problems.

Extension

• Research one everyday mixture or solution and present its use to the class.

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Day 2: Adding Fractions Through Solutions

Common Core Standards

• Continue 5.NF.A.1 and 5.PAFR.2.1
• Science 5-PS1-4

Learning Objectives

• I can add fractions with unlike denominators in multi-step problems.
• I can explain what a solution is and how substances dissolve.

Materials

• Science experiment kit for salt-water solution (salt, water, spoon, cup)
• Fraction cards with unlike denominators
• Vocabulary charts

Success Criteria

• I can solve addition problems with unlike denominators involving three or more fractions.
• I can describe the process of dissolving and identify solute and solvent.

Activities

1. Engage (10 min):
   Conduct a salt dissolving experiment; students observe and record observations using science vocabulary.
2. Explore (15 min):
   Students solve fraction addition problems involving 3 fractions (e.g., 1/4 + 1/6 + 1/3) connected to quantities used in the experiment.
3. Explain (10 min):
   Discuss solute, solvent, and solution. Connect fractions to measurement of solute and solvent in the experiment.
4. Elaborate (15 min):
   Small groups create word problems combining science investigation and fractions, then swap problems with peers to solve.
5. Evaluate (10 min):
   Quiz: Add 1/5 + 1/2 + 1/10; label parts of the solution using vocabulary.

Differentiation

• Use guided notes for ELL and struggling students.
• Provide challenge problems with mixed numbers and improper fractions for advanced students.

Extension

• Write a step-by-step procedure for creating a salt-water solution including fraction measurements.

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Day 3: Applying Mixed Fractions to Mixtures & Solutions

Common Core Standards

• Mathematics 5.NF.A.1, 5.PAFR.2.1
• Science 5-PS1-4

Learning Objectives

• I can add mixed numbers with unlike denominators.
• I can differentiate mixtures from solutions based on their properties.

Materials

• Measurement cups, recipe cards for simple mixtures
• Whiteboard fraction problems
• Science vocabulary anchor charts

Success Criteria

• I can accurately add mixed numbers with unlike denominators.
• I can classify examples as mixtures or solutions based on attributes.

Activities

1. Engage (10 min):
   Review vocabulary and previous experiments with discussion on differences in mixtures and solutions.
2. Explore (20 min):
   Problem-solving session: Students add mixed numbers with unlike denominators tied to measuring ingredients in mixtures (e.g., 1 1/2 cups oil + 2 2/3 cups vinegar).
3. Explain (10 min):
   Use visuals to show differences between mixtures and solutions, discuss terms sediment, dissolve, solute, solvent.
4. Elaborate (15 min):
   Lab stations: Students create a simple mixture/solution using provided materials and describe their observations with added fractions.
5. Evaluate (5 min):
   Students complete reflection prompts: “I can add mixed fractions to…” and describe their experiment.

Differentiation

• Pair students strategically for peer support.
• Provide calculators for students needing math assistance.

Extension

• Investigate other ways to separate mixtures (filtration, evaporation) and explain using fractions.

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Day 4: Assessment & Real-World Application

Common Core Standards

• Mathematics 5.NF.A.1, 5.PAFR.2.1
• Science 5-PS1-4

Learning Objectives

• I can add fractions with unlike denominators independently.
• I can explain how science concepts of mixtures and solutions connect to real life.

Materials

• Assessment worksheets
• Science journal for written reflection
• Rubrics for self-assessment

Success Criteria

• I can solve adding fractions problems correctly on the assessment.
• I can communicate how mixtures and solutions are part of everyday life.

Activities

1. Engage (5 min):
   Review “I can” statements and success criteria for math and science.
2. Assessment (30 min):
   Students independently complete math problems (adding 2-4 fractions with unlike denominators including mixed numbers) linked with science context problems about mixtures and solutions.
3. Science Reflection Writing (15 min):
   Write a paragraph explaining one mixture or solution they experimented with, using math vocabulary to describe quantities, and science vocabulary to explain observations.
4. Self-Assessment & Share (10 min):
   Students assess their work using rubric and share one new concept learned with a partner or small group.

Differentiation

• Extended time for extra support students.
• Provide word banks for vocabulary during reflection writing.

Extension

• Create a science-math poster showcasing fractions and mixtures/solutions for a classroom science fair.

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Differentiation Summary

• Visual fraction tools for all lessons
• Scaffolded word problems and sentence frames for ELL & struggling learners
• Challenge problems (mixed numbers, improper fractions, multi-step) for advanced learners
• Small group math rotations for intensified support and enrichment

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Vocabulary Focus

• Mixture
• Solution
• Dissolve
• Sediment
• Solute
• Solvent

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This integrated unit engages 5th graders in meaningful math and science exploration while building mastery of fractions with unlike denominators aligned with Common Core and science standards. It enhances conceptual understanding through hands-on experiments, problem-solving, collaborative learning, and real-world connections to ensure deep learning and retention.