What Do 5th Graders Learn in Math?

Fifth grade is a year of exciting growth, especially when it comes to math. As students begin to bridge the gap between elementary and middle school, their skills are put to the test in new and challenging ways. So, what do 5th graders learn in math?

In fifth grade, students dive into a variety of math concepts that build on what they’ve learned in earlier grades. We’ll cover common topics that will be included in their curriculum, so you can support their learning at home!

Math Skills Your Kids Will Learn in 5th Grade

Here are the common topics that will be included in their curriculum. With this knowledge, you'll be better equipped to assist them and strengthen their math skills!

1. Understanding and comparing fractions

In 5th grade, students will learn that fractions represent parts of a whole and that different fractions can represent the same value (for example, 1/2 is the same as 2/4).

They’ll also learn how to compare fractions with different denominators by finding a common denominator or converting them to decimals.

Students will practice comparing fractions using symbols like <, >, or = to figure out which fraction is bigger or smaller. This skill helps with everyday tasks like sharing, cooking, or measuring.

2. Multi-digit multiplication and division

This includes multiplying large numbers (like 36 x 45) and dividing numbers with two or more digits (like 128 ÷ 12). They also practice using strategies like long division and the standard algorithm for multiplication.

Students tackle real-world problems, such as calculating prices, measurements, or managing finances, and feel more prepared for advanced math in the future.

3. Working with decimals

Students will focus on working with decimals, which are numbers that represent parts of a whole, similar to fractions. They’ll learn how to add, subtract, multiply, and divide decimals, and how to convert them to fractions and vice versa (for example, 0.5 is the same as 1/2).

Word problems are often included when learning decimals in the classroom because they help students apply their skills in practical, real-life situations.

4. Coordinate plane

In 5th grade, students build on the graphing skills they learned in 4th grade by exploring the coordinate plane. They learn to plot points using ordered pairs (x, y) and identify locations across the four quadrants.

This is a natural progression from 4th grade, where students focus on interpreting and organizing data with graphs like bar graphs and line plots.

The coordinate plane introduces a more precise way of understanding relationships between numbers and spatial locations, which sets the stage for more advanced math concepts in later grades.

5. Volume

Volume is an important math concept for 5th graders. It helps students understand how to measure the amount of space inside 3D objects.

Exercises on volume in 5th grade often involve calculating the volume of a box using the formula length × width × height. Students also work through word problems based on real-life scenarios, such as determining the volume of storage containers or other everyday objects.

Additionally, they compare the volumes of different objects to understand how size influences capacity.

6. Geometry

Geometry focuses on understanding shapes, their properties, and how they relate to one another. Students explore two-dimensional shapes like triangles and rectangles, as well as three-dimensional shapes like cubes and spheres.

They learn about angles, symmetry, and how to measure and calculate area and perimeter. Geometry is often seen as a fun topic because it involves hands-on activities like drawing, building models, and solving puzzles, which makes it engaging and interactive for 5th grade students!

7. Metric and customary measurement

In 5th grade, students learn about metric and customary measurement systems. They practice converting units within each system (such as inches to feet or centimeters to meters) and measuring length, weight, and volume.

While it can be challenging at first, especially when converting between the two systems, many students find it easier with practice and hands-on activities.

8. Solving numerical expressions

Solving numerical expressions means simplifying math problems that include numbers and operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division). The process involves following a specific order to ensure accuracy.

For example, PEMDAS (Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication/Division, Addition/Subtraction) helps students know which operation to perform first. This allows them to solve problems in the correct sequence to get the right answer.

9. Powers of ten

Powers of ten refer to numbers that are written as 10 raised to an exponent. The exponent shows how many times 10 is multiplied by itself. For example, 10² equals 10 × 10, or 100. Similarly, 10³ equals 10 × 10 × 10, or 1,000.

This concept is helpful for students when working with large or small numbers, as it simplifies writing them. For example, 5,000 can be written as 5 × 10³. Powers of ten are foundational for understanding exponents and scientific notation.

Summary

As a parent or tutor, it's helpful to guide your child through math topics like fractions, decimals, and geometry. Use simple math tricks, like strategies for multiplying big numbers or visualizing shapes, to make learning fun. With regular reinforcement, your child will gain the confidence and skills needed for more advanced math in the coming years.