Skip to content
Learning Standards Standards

What does a student learn in ?

This is the year math stretches past whole numbers into decimals and fractions. Students learn to add and subtract fractions with unlike bottom numbers, multiply and divide fractions, and work with decimals out to the hundredths place. They also start using parentheses to write longer number sentences and read simple line graphs. By spring, they can solve a word problem like splitting 3/4 of a pizza among 6 friends and explain the answer.

  • Fractions
  • Decimals
  • Multiplication and division
  • Word problems
  • Volume
  • Graphs
Source: Delaware Delaware Content Standards
Year at a glance
How the year usually goes. Every school and district set their own curriculum, so treat this as a guide, not official pacing.
  1. 1

    Place value and decimals

    Students extend place value into decimals, reading and writing numbers to the thousandths. They compare decimals and round them, building a feel for how a digit's spot changes its worth.

  2. 2

    Operations with whole numbers and decimals

    Students multiply and divide larger whole numbers with confidence, then apply the same thinking to add, subtract, multiply, and divide decimals. Money and measurement problems show up often.

  3. 3

    Fractions as numbers

    Students add and subtract fractions with different denominators, and multiply and divide fractions in real situations like recipes and sharing. Fractions start to behave like numbers students can operate on, not just pictures.

  4. 4

    Measurement, data, and volume

    Students convert between units like inches and feet or grams and kilograms, and read line plots with fractional measurements. They also learn to measure volume by counting unit cubes inside boxes.

  5. 5

    Shapes and the coordinate plane

    Students plot points on a grid using two numbers and use the grid to solve simple problems. They also sort shapes by their features, such as which quadrilaterals are also rectangles.

Mastery Learning Standards
The required skills a student should display by the end of Grade 5.
Standards for Mathematical Practice

  • Make Sense of Problems

    DE-MATH.MP.5.1

    Students read a problem carefully, figure out what it's actually asking, and keep trying even when the first approach doesn't work.

  • Reason Abstractly

    DE-MATH.MP.5.2

    Students take a word problem apart to work with the numbers, then put the numbers back into the story to check that the answer makes sense in real life.

  • Construct Arguments

    DE-MATH.MP.5.3

    Students explain why their math answer is correct and listen to how classmates solved the same problem. They practice spotting flaws in someone else's reasoning, not just their own.

  • Model with Mathematics

    DE-MATH.MP.5.4

    Students use math to make sense of real situations, like figuring out the cost of groceries or how long a trip will take. The math connects to something outside the classroom.

  • Use Tools Strategically

    DE-MATH.MP.5.5

    Students choose the right tool for the math problem in front of them, whether that means reaching for a calculator, sketching it out on paper, or making a quick estimate in their head.

  • Attend to Precision

    DE-MATH.MP.5.6

    Students choose words, labels, and calculations carefully so their math work says exactly what they mean. That means writing the right unit (inches, not just numbers), using math terms correctly, and checking that each step of a problem is accurate.

  • Use Structure

    DE-MATH.MP.5.7

    Students learn to spot patterns and hidden structure in math problems, like noticing that multiplying by ten always shifts digits one place to the left. Recognizing that structure helps students solve new problems faster.

  • Express Regularity

    DE-MATH.MP.5.8

    Students notice when the same steps keep showing up in a math problem and use that pattern to find a shortcut or rule. Instead of starting from scratch each time, they ask why it keeps working.

K-8 Mathematics Content

  • Counting and Number

    DE-MATH.K8.5.1

    Students work with whole numbers, fractions, and negative numbers, using what they know about how our number system is built to solve grade-level problems.

  • Operations and Algebraic Thinking

    DE-MATH.K8.5.2

    Students write and solve number sentences using addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division to work through real-world problems. They also read and evaluate expressions before solving, keeping track of which operation comes first.

  • Measurement and Data

    DE-MATH.K8.5.3

    Students read and build tables, line plots, and graphs to make sense of real data. They also find the mean, median, or range to describe what a set of numbers shows.

  • Geometry

    DE-MATH.K8.5.4

    Students sort and measure flat shapes like rectangles and triangles alongside solid shapes like cubes and cones. They describe what makes each shape unique, using side lengths and angles to back up their thinking.

  • Ratios and Proportional Relationships

    DE-MATH.K8.5.5

    Students use ratio reasoning to solve everyday math problems at the grade 5 level. That means comparing quantities, scaling recipes or maps, and figuring out how two amounts relate to each other.

Assessments
The state tests students at this grade and subject take.
State Summative

DeSSA: Mathematics (Smarter Balanced, Grades 3-8)

Delaware's spring summative math test for grades 3 through 8, aligned to the Delaware Math Standards.

When given:
spring
Frequency:
annual
Official source
Common Questions
  • What math should students know by the end of this year?

    Students should add, subtract, multiply, and divide whole numbers fluently, work with decimals to the hundredths, and add and subtract fractions with unlike denominators. They should also start multiplying and dividing fractions, find volume of boxes, and plot points on a grid.

  • How can I help my child at home if math feels hard this year?

    Cook together and ask about halves, thirds, and quarters of a cup. Hand over the receipt at the store and ask for the change. Ten minutes a few times a week beats one long session on the weekend.

  • Why is so much of fifth grade about fractions and decimals?

    Fractions and decimals are the bridge to middle school math. Once students can compare 0.7 and 0.65, or add one half and one third, ratios and percents in later grades come much easier. Time spent here pays off for years.

  • What usually needs the most reteaching in fifth grade?

    Adding and subtracting fractions with unlike denominators is the biggest sticking point, followed by dividing decimals and keeping place value straight in long multiplication. Plan extra practice days for these and revisit them in warm-ups across the year.

  • How should I sequence the year so fractions get enough time?

    Start with place value and decimal operations in the fall while fractions are still warm from fourth grade. Move to fraction addition and subtraction by winter, then fraction multiplication and division in late winter and spring. Save volume and the coordinate grid for the last stretch.

  • My child can get the answer but cannot explain it. Is that a problem?

    At this age, explaining the thinking matters as much as the answer. Ask questions like why that step works or what would happen with a bigger number. If students can teach it back, they understand it.

  • How do I know students are ready for sixth grade math?

    By spring, students should solve a multi-step word problem with fractions or decimals without much prompting, explain their reasoning in a sentence or two, and check whether the answer makes sense. Speed matters less than that habit of checking.

  • Does my child still need to practice basic multiplication facts?

    Yes. Fifth grade math leans hard on quick recall of times tables up to 12. If facts are shaky, long multiplication and fraction work get painful. Five minutes of flash cards or a facts app a few nights a week is enough.