Grade 5 - Algebraic Reasoning Unit

The Algebraic Reasoning Unit involves understanding the properties of numbers, understanding and generating number patterns, and using the properties and patterns to develop meaning for expressions and equations. Questions to answer may include:

  • What is the difference between additive and multiplicative number patterns?
  • How does organizing data in a table or graph help these patterns emerge?
  • How are parentheses and brackets used to develop meaning in expressions and equations?
  • What does it mean to “simplify” an expression?

Math Concepts and Skills: 

The student develops concepts of expressions and equations.

The student is expected to:

  • recognize the difference between additive and multiplicative numerical patterns given in a table or graph.
  • generate a numerical pattern when given a rule in the form y = ax or y = x + a.
  • graph a numerical pattern when given a rule such as yax or y = x + a.
  • describe the meaning of parentheses and brackets in a numeric expression such as 3(12 + 5) is 3 times as large as (12 + 5).
  • simplify numerical expressions that (excluding exponents), with up to two levels of grouping such as
    (3 + 7) / (5 - 3).

Find tasks by units of study

Summative Assessment Task

Students continue two patterns to determine how many large and small stones Sarah collects to build a stone wall.

Instructional Tasks/Formative Assessments

Given two patterns, students determine which child will collect the most basketball cards.

Students continue a pattern to determine how many cans and bottles the fifth graders collect on the 10th day and the 30th day.

Students continue a pattern to determine how many bird seeds a chickadee and a cardinal take from a bird feeder.

Students continue a pattern to determine how many plants and insects two people find in a region of the rainforest.

Get your FREE PDF today!

Just verify your email address, and we'll send it out.