TEKS 5.4F: Simplify Numerical Expressions
Simplify Numerical Expressions: Whole Numbers
About this lesson
Learning Target: I can simplify multi-step numerical expressions with whole numbers.
Focuses On:
- Simplifying expressions with up to two groupings
- Whole number operations
- Understanding the Order of Operations
Builds On:
5.4E:
Describe the meaning of parentheses and brackets in a numeric expression
Next Level:
6.7A:
Generate equivalent numerical expressions using order of operations, including whole number exponents, and prime factorization
Read More:
This lesson is designed to set the foundation for understanding the order of operations using only whole number operations. It allows students to practice the flow without getting stuck on decimals or fractions.
The instructional block in this lesson is simplify expressions. Students are asked to break down each problem into steps and encouraged to solve problems line by line with each line being the next operation needed in the order of operations.
This skill is critical in the next level of mathematics where students solve complex algebraic problems and expression inequalities.
Grade 5MathTEKS 5.4FSimplify Expressions: Decimals
About this lesson
Learning Target: I can simplify multi-step expressions with decimals.
Focuses On:
- Simplifying expressions with up to two groupings
- Utilizing decimal numbers in operations
- Understanding the Order of Operations
Builds On:
5.4E:
Describe the meaning of parentheses and brackets in a numeric expression
Next Level:
6.7A:
Generate equivalent numerical expressions using order of operations, including whole number exponents, and prime factorization
Read More:
This lesson is designed as the last layer of understanding order of operations in 5th grade. Ensuring students understand how to do all four operations with decimal numbers is a prerequisite to this lesson. It is recommended to ensure mastery of order of operations with whole numbers prior to completing this lesson.
The two instructional blocks in this lesson are simplify expressions and equivalent expressions.
The first instructional block has students using the order of operations to simplify expressions that include decimals. The lesson is structured to have students complete each operation on a new line to keep their work organized. It is encouraged to highlight this process as this becomes more important in later grades.
The second instructional block has students identify if two expressions are equivalent or not. Students need to simplify each expression to compare them and decide if they are equivalent.
Grade 5MathTEKS 5.4F