Grade 5 Math Unit Test: Adding and Subtracting Fractions (24 Marks)

About This Resource

A 1-page, 24-mark unit test in 4 parts — equivalent fractions, add and subtract, mixed numbers, reason and solve — with an answer key and score guide.

Overview

Students learn WHY we need a common denominator before adding or subtracting fractions: you can only add pieces of the same size. Fraction bars make the idea visible before any rule is used. Students then add and subtract fractions with unlike denominators, simplify answers, work with mixed numbers, and check answers by estimating with benchmarks (0, 1/2, 1).

Resource Details

Subject: Math
Topic: Adding and Subtracting Fractions
Category: Fractions & Decimals
File Type: PDF
File Size: 204.4 KB
Published: 21 Oct 2026
Downloads: 0

Members Only

Upgrade to Teacher Pro (from ฿199/month) to download this resource.

Upgrade to Pro Login

Looking for something different? Request a Resource.

Grade 5 50 Minutes Worksheet Adding and Subtracting Fractions

Question Types & Suggested Use

Exit tickets in each lesson. Worksheet Parts A–F with the answer key. Mid-unit Quiz (12 marks) after lesson 2. Unit Test (24 marks) at the end. Homework after each lesson. Performance task (rubric): "Fraction Recipe" — change a recipe and explain the fraction calculations.

Skills Assessed

Explain why fractions need the same denominator (same-size pieces) before adding or subtracting.
Add and subtract fractions with unlike denominators by finding equivalent fractions.
Add and subtract mixed numbers, including regrouping a whole.
Estimate with benchmark fractions to check that an answer is reasonable.
Solve word problems involving adding and subtracting fractions.

How to Administer

Give at the end of the unit (or as a pre-test before teaching).
Allow about 40 minutes. Students work alone.
Mark with the answer key; use the score guide to decide who needs re-teaching or a challenge.

Differentiation

Support: Always start with fraction strips; write the numbers only after the bars. Challenge: Add three fractions: 1/2 + 1/3 + 1/6. English language learners: Sentence frames: "I need the same denominator because ___." "___ is the same as ___."

Follow-Up Activities

Fraction Strip Proof (12 minutes, Pairs): Give each pair a sum card, e.g. 1/2 + 1/4. They build both fractions with strips and line them up under a whole strip.
Fraction War (10 minutes, Pairs): Each player turns over two cards and adds them. The bigger sum wins all four cards.
Closer to 0, 1/2 or 1? (8 minutes, Whole class): Show a sum or difference, e.g. 7/8 + 1/10. Students walk to the sign closest to the answer — no exact calculation!

Teacher Tips

Use the phrase "same-size pieces" every lesson — it is the big idea. Let students discover the 2/6 mistake themselves with bars before teaching the rule.