In fifth grade, students are expected to be able to read print numbers and decimal places. They should know their multiplication tables up to 12 and be able to understand percentages. Word problems are a common way to help fifth grade students grow in their understanding of numbers and measurements. Word problems set up real life scenarios and ask the student to select the appropriate problem solving method and then give him an opportunity to put classroom lessons to work.
Fifth grade math introduces students to the world of geometry. Students need to understand and classify triangles as well as understand broader geometric principles. Students need to measure angles and understand map coordinates. Teaching geometry in fifth grade is fun, given the right tools, because geometry lends itself to some creative games. Develop a scavenger hunt and give each student a map. Using the given coordinates, students go on the scavenger hunt and find clues in each location until the end. Other students are familiar with a game called Tangrams that asks the players to make shapes out of other shapes, introducing them to the concept of angles and angle measurement.
In the beginning stages of algebra, students must be able to identify, create and extend numeric patterns. They should be able to fill in missing numbers where a pattern exists and be able to work fluidly with all four mathematic operations. Students should also be able to add and subtract given numbers and determine equality or inequality. For the more visual student, play a pattern game with candy pieces or other tokens. It should be easier for the student to see how many tokens are needed to appropriately fill the given pattern.
Students in fifth grade should be able to design surveys, collect and record data and be able to discuss their findings. Using diagrams and charts, they should be able to organize data and come to a sound conclusion. An extension of the algebraic pattern skill, students should be able to predict outcome based on historical information. Have students create a topic of interest to them and create a survey covering that topic. For example, a student who wants soda to be served in the cafeteria creates a survey asking parents, teachers and peers their opinions. They then translate their findings into an English subject paper, using persuasive techniques backed by mathematical data. This also brings math to life in a tangible way for many students.