Operations & Algebraic Thinking Classwork for Fifth Graders

Oct 17, 2024 by The Brisk Team

This worksheet is designed to guide students through foundational concepts in operations and algebraic thinking. Through a mix of direct questions, word problems, and pattern recognition, students will explore how addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division are used in problem-solving. The goal is to develop not only their computational skills but also their ability to recognize patterns and use simple algebraic expressions. By the end of the activity, students should feel more confident in using numbers and symbols to solve problems and start seeing math as a tool for everyday life.

Why Operations & Algebraic Thinking is a Foundational Skill for 5th Graders

Operations and Algebraic Thinking is a foundational skill for 5th graders because it helps them develop the ability to solve complex problems using basic mathematical operations and introduces them to algebraic reasoning. Mastery of these concepts is essential for future success in higher-level math, such as algebra and geometry. It also builds critical thinking and problem-solving skills that are applicable in everyday life, from managing finances to understanding patterns. By learning these skills early, students gain the confidence to approach more abstract math concepts in later grades.

Creating a Lesson Plan in 2 Minutes with Brisk: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Install the Brisk Extension and pin Brisk to your browser toolbar.

Step 2: Open up a blank Google Doc and click the Brisk Chrome extension (“B” icon) in the bottom right corner of your screen.

Step 3: Click the ‘Create’ button and then click “Inquiry Worksheet”.

Step 4: In the text box, type: “Operations & Algebraic Thinking”

Step 5: Select the appropriate Grade level and Standard (optional).

Inquiry Worksheet: Operations & Algebraic Thinking

Name: ______________________ Date: _______________

Introduction

Today, we will explore Operations and Algebraic Thinking! This means we will look at how to use numbers and symbols to solve problems. Let's dive in!

Part 1: Understanding Operations

1. What are Operations?  

   Fill in the blanks with the correct operations: addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.

   - When you combine numbers to find a total, you use __________.

   - When you take away a number from another, you use __________.

   - When you find the product of two numbers, you use __________.

   - When you split a number into equal parts, you use __________.

Part 2: Solving Problems

2. Word Problems  

   Read the following problems and solve them. Show your work!

   a. Sarah has 15 apples. She gives 4 apples to her friend. How many apples does Sarah have left?  

   Answer: _______________  

   Work: ____________________________________________________________

   b. A box contains 6 packs of crayons. Each pack has 8 crayons. How many crayons are there in total?  

   Answer: _______________  

   Work: ____________________________________________________________

Part 3: Patterns and Algebra

3. Finding Patterns  

   Look at the number pattern below. Fill in the missing numbers.

   2, 4, ___, 8, ___, 12

   Missing Numbers: _______________

4. Algebraic Expressions  

   Write an expression for the following situation:  

   "You have x number of candies, and you buy 5 more."  

   Expression: _______________

Part 4: Reflection

5. Think About It  

   Why do you think understanding operations and algebra is important in real life?  

   Your Answer: ____________________________________________________________

Part 5: Challenge Question

6. Challenge  

   If you double a number and then subtract 3, the result is 13. What is the original number?  

   Your Answer: _______________  

   Work: ____________________________________________________________

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Conclusion

Great job today! Remember, operations and algebra help us solve problems in everyday life. Keep practicing these skills!

Teacher's Notes

- Discuss the answers as a class.

- Encourage students to explain their thought processes.

Use Brisk to Customize This Classwork in Just a Few Clicks

Here’s how to modify this lesson plan in seconds:

Step 1: Install the Brisk Extension and pin Brisk to your browser toolbar.

Step 2: File > Make a copy of the classwork.

Step 3: Click the Brisk Chrome extension (“B” icon) in the bottom right corner of your screen.

Step 4: Click the ‘Something Else’ button.

Step 5: Type in the text box and ask Brisk to adjust the lesson plan for your students. The more specific you are, the more tailored your lesson plan will be!

Be sure to use Brisk to make modifications based on the students in your class! 

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