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35 Math Questions For 5th Graders: Answers With Worked Examples

Anantha anilkumar.

In 5th grade math, the toughest questions are often the reasoning questions. In this article, we’ve put together a collection of math questions for 5th graders, organized by the different kinds of reasoning questions that students may encounter on standardized tests and beyond.

Why Focus On Math Reasoning Questions?

Most fifth graders find reasoning questions to be the most difficult. Unsurprisingly, we teach thousands of students in the weeks leading up to standardized tests. Teaching them math reasoning skills at the elementary level is a big part of what we do here at Third Space Learning.

We even recently made the decision to restructure our elementary lessons to introduce math reasoning questions earlier in their learning journey as the difficulty level was just too high at the end of the lesson. We  definitely feel fifth grade teachers’ pain!

Whatever level your students are currently achieving in math, math reasoning questions will appear from elementary to high school, so it is an essential skill for the future.

If you find you have children in your class with a lot more catching up to do than others, then we may be able to support them with some personalized one-on-one tutoring if you get in touch.

Common Core Practice Test Grade 5

Want more math questions for 5th graders? Try our Grade 5 practice assessment for Common Core or state equivalents, including 40 questions covering a range of topics.

35 Math Questions For 5th Graders

There are 7 types of math reasoning questions that fifth graders are likely to encounter:

For each of these types we’ll examine an example problem, looking at the question, the correct answer, and how to go about answering this problem.

We’ll also look at further examples of each type of math reasoning question and answer, again with worked examples and an explanation of how to answer each.

Our aim is to provide you with a sample of the types of math reasoning questions and how to teach the reasoning and problem solving skills they’ll need to solve them.

For more word problems like this, check out our collection of 2-step and multi-step word problems . For advice on how to teach children to solve problems like this, check out these math problem solving strategies.

Math Question Type 1: Single step word problems

The simplest type of reasoning question students are likely to encounter, single step problems are exactly that: students are asked to interpret a written question and carry out a single mathematical step to solve it.

Take a look at the question below:

Reasoning Question 1

single step word problem for 5th graders with money

Answer: $0.65

A relatively easy question to interpret–the first step will be to rewrite the amounts given so that they can properly line up the place values in order to solve. From here the simple mathematical step is subtraction i.e. $2.00 – $1.35 = 0.65.

The most crucial skill for grade schoolers in this question is a solid understanding of money as relating to place value. If this understanding is present, the mathematical step itself is quite easy.

Below are several more examples:

Reasoning Question 2

reasoning question for 5th graders using time

Answer : 7 hours 24 minutes

Students need to understand that one hour is equal to 60 minutes. From here the single mathematical step is division: 444/60, to find a whole number answer with a remainder.

Reasoning Question 3

single step reasoning questions for 5th graders to find volume of 3d shape

Answer : 48 cm 3

Students must multiply length by width by height, using the amounts provided by the question.

Reasoning Question 4

single step reasoning question for 5th graders involving volume

Answer : 1,488 cubic cm

A simple enough calculation (multiplying) if students are aware that the volume of a rectangular prism can be found by multiplying the area of the base by the height.

Reasoning Question 5

single step reasoning question for 5th graders

Answer : 7,590

A single, relatively simple rounding problem – students should recognize that ’94’ is the place they should focus on for this problem.

Math Question Type 2: Multiple step worded problems

A more complex version of the single step word problem, multi-step problems require students to interpret a written problem, but solving it then requires the use of two or three math skills.

For example, consider this question below:

multiple step worded problem for 5th graders using money

Answer: $1.85

This question encompasses three different math skills: multiplying (and dividing) decimals, addition and subtraction. Students can choose to work out the multiplication or division first, but must complete both before moving on.

Once these values have been worked out the next steps are relatively simple – adding the two values together, and subtracting the total from $5.

Multi-step problems are particularly valuable to include in practice tests because they require children to apply their knowledge of math language and their reasoning skills several times across the course of a single question, usually in slightly different contexts.

More examples:

multistep worded problem for 5th graders calculating profit

Answer : $5,520

There are two steps to this problem, but both are multiplication. The first is to work out how much money is made per day – 92 x $15. This product is then multiplied by 4 – the number of days – to get to the answer.

multistep worded problem for 5th graders calculating distance using fractions

Answer : 1360 miles

Another two step problem. The first step is to work out 4 of 3,400 miles. Then divide this by 10 to solve for 4/10 of 3,400.

multistep word problem for 5th graders

Answer : $153

There are four steps involved in solving this problem: multiplication (doubling $51), division (dividing $51 in half), multiplication again (doubling half of $51–which some students may recognize those last two steps were unnecessary as that brings us back to $51), and addition (putting the two costs together).

Given the number of steps involved it can be easy for students to make arithmetic mistakes.

multistep word problem for 5th graders

Answer : 11.45 lbs

A two-step problem again: multiplying 3.45 lbs by 4, then subtracting 2.35 lbs from the total. 

Math Question Type 3: Problems involving measurements

As their name suggests, these questions ask students to solve a problem that includes one or more units of measurement.

TSL slide on metric measurements for 5th graders

Answer: 40 washes

This is a two step problem; students must first be able to read and convert kilograms to grams (and therefore know the relationship and conversions between the two units- 1,000 grams to 1 kilogram), multiply 2.6 by 1,000 which equals 2,600, then divide 2,600 by 65. The quotient is the number of washes possible.

Further examples:

hard math problems to solve for 5th graders

Answer : 50g

A relatively simple division problem, relying on students having knowledge that 200g is one fifth of a kilogram.

math problem for 5th graders using distance

Answer : 5.12 miles

Another three step problem, and this requires students to subtract and divide decimals – subtracting 12.63 miles from the total amount, taking the difference, 13.91, and subtracting 3.67 miles, and then dividing that difference, 10.24, in half to obtain the distance the other two friends ran.

math problem for 5th grader using height

Answer : 84 inches/7 foot

To find 8 feet in inches, students must multiply 8 by 12. This gives the answer 96 inches. Students must then divide 96 by 40 to find the height of one box: 2.4 inches. Multiply 2.4 by 5 and minus this from the original 96 inch tower. 

Interesting to note that the units for the answer may or may not be specified – an answer given in inches or feet will be accepted, however sometimes the unit will be specified in the answer box. This is why we encourage students to keep an eye on whether units are provided in the answer box.

math problem for 5th graders using weight

Answer : 0.05 lbs

As with the running question there are three steps involved to solve this problem: subtracting the heaviest car from the total amount (3.85 – 1), figuring out the weight of the remaining three cars (2.85/3) and subtracting 0.95 from 1 to get the remaining amount of 0.05 lbs.

Question Type 4: Problems involving drawing

Problems involving drawing require students to construct an accurate drawing by following a set of instructions, or through reflection, translation, or scaling.  

math problem for 5th graders using shape

Answer: Any pair of lines that make a square of 4 units, a rectangle of 6 units, and a square of 25 units.

This question is considerably more complex than it appears, and incorporates aspects of multiplication as well as spatial awareness. One potential solution is to work out the area of the card (35), then work out the possible square numbers that will fit in (understanding that square numbers produce a square when drawn out as on a grid), and which then leave a single rectangle behind.

A lot of work for a single point!

Some further examples:

math drawing shape problem for fifth grader

Answer : Any quadrilateral made by joining the dots that has 3 acute angles e.g. an arrowhead shape.

math drawing angles problem for 5th graders

Answer : An accurately drawn angle.

This question demands students to have an understanding of and ability to accurately use a protractor. Often, a mark scheme allows some room for error – “between 34 and 36 degrees” is acceptable.

math problem for 5th graders drawing accurate angles

As with the question above, a small amount of room for error is given as it acceptable to be between 139 and 141 degrees.

math problem for 5th grader to plot coordinates

Answer : Points drawn at (2,1), (5,1) and (2,4).

Math Question Type 5: Explanation questions

These problems ask children to explain a mathematical statement or error.

As an example:

math problem for 5th graders asking students to explain an error

Answer: If the distance from P to R is 800 yards and the distance from P to Q is (Q -> R x 4), it must be 4/5 of 800 = 640 yards. Therefore Olivia is wrong.

More than most problems, this type requires students to actively demonstrate their reasoning skills as well as their mathematical ones. Here students must articulate either in words or (where possible) numerically that they understand that Q to R is 1/5 of the total, that therefore P to Q is 4/5 of the total distance, and then calculate what this is via division and multiplication.

Further examples below:

reasoning math problem for 5th graders

Answer : No, 2/100 is the same as 2 divided by 100, which equals 0.02.

reasoning math problem for 5th graders

Answer : No; multiplication and division have the same priority in the order of operations, so in a problem like 40 x 6 ÷2, you would carry out the multiplication first as it occurs first.

math reasoning problem for 5th graders

Answer : No

Any explanation that provides a counter-example is acceptable e.g. “Not if the number is 1”, “Not for 0,” “Not if the number is less than 1” etc.

math reasoning question for 5th graders

Answer : Any answer that refers to the fact that there is a 5 in the hundredths place, AND a 9 in the thousandths place, so that the number has to be rounded up as far as the ten-thousands place.

Math Question Type 6: Sequence questions

Another relatively simple kind of reasoning question, sequence problems involve students completing mathematical sequences.

Consider this example:

sequence question for 5th graders

Answer: 35 , 42, 49, 56 , 63, 70

The question’s instructions point clearly to the solution: figure out what the increase between numbers is, then apply this via addition or subtraction to find the missing numbers.

Higher achieving students might quickly pick up that this is in fact the 7 times table and rely on their knowledge of multiplication facts to obtain the answer – this should be encouraged so long as they then check their answer in the normal method to ensure they haven’t made a mistake.

sequence question for 5th grade

Answer(s) : 8/8 or 1 and 2 1/8 (OR 17/8)

Both answers must be correct to receive the point. Students must recognize that 3/4 is the same as 6/8, so the sequence is increasing in 3/8 each time. The first number is 3/8 less than 1 3/8 and the final number is 3/8 greater than 1 3/4. They then must be able to add and subtract fractions to obtain the answers.

math question for 5th grade using decimals

Answer(s) : 4.2 and 7

math question for 5th graders on sequences

Answer(s) : 128, 135 and 156.

math question for 5th graders completing sequence

Answer(s) : 0 and 24

This number line question can be a little tricky; students need to figure out that the marks on the line represent increments of 3, and count backwards and forwards in 3’s to obtain the missing numbers.

Math Question Type 7: Ordering questions

A slightly more complex variation of the sequence question, ordering problems require students to put a set of numbers, fractions or measures in the correct order.

A good example is this fifth grade math question below:

math question for 5th graders ordering question

Answer: 3/5, 3/4, 6/5

This question throws a wrench in things by including an improper fraction, but this is hardly unusual. These sorts of questions are just the place to find other ‘curveballs’ such as equivalent fractions, mixed numbers, decimal numbers, and fractions all mixed into one problem.

A good knowledge of the fundamentals of fractions is essential here: students must understand what a larger denominator means, and the significance of a fraction with a numerator greater than its denominator.

math question for 5th graders ordering

Answer : D,C,A,B

Encourage students to convert all the fractions to one denominator value to make ordering easier.

hard math problems to solve for 5th graders

Answer : (descending down the ‘Place’ column) 3rd, 5th, 2nd, 4th

Students could use many strategies to solve this problem. The most time consuming would be to rewrite all the fractions with a common denominator. More efficient strategies would include reasoning about the size of the fractions in comparison to ½ or 1. For instance, a student may notice that ⅜ is the only fraction less than ½, putting Ben in 5th place. 4/8 is exactly ½ whereas the others are greater than ½, putting Michael in 4th place. Then the student may recognize that 10/12 is closer to 1 than ¾, completing the rest of the table.

hard math problems to solve for 5th graders

Answer : C, B, D, A

hard math problems to solve for 5th graders

Answer : D, A, C, B

7 Top Tips For Answering 5th Grade Math Reasoning Questions

Now that we’ve covered how to answer some specific types of reasoning questions, here are some more generic tips for success in standardized tests. They may not all be applicable to every single question, but will apply to at least two, usually more.

  • Get students in the habit of identifying what information they’re given in a question, and what they need to know to solve the problem. This helps them start to form the steps needed to find the solution.
  • Ask students to ‘spot the math’ in a question – which operations or skills do they actually need to use to solve the problem? This is useful even for arithmetic questions – it’s no surprise how often children can misread a question.
  • Check the units! Especially in questions involving multiple measures, it can be easy to give the answer in the wrong one. The answer box might give a specific unit of measurement, so students should work to give their answer in that unit.
  • In a similar vein, remind students to convert different units of measurement in a question into the same unit to make calculations easier e.g. lbs to oz.
  • Encourage numerical answers where possible. Even in explanation questions demonstrating the mathematical equation is a better explanation than trying to write it out.
  • The bar model can be a useful way of visualizing many different types of questions, and might make it easier to spot the ‘steps’ needed for the solution.
  • Check your work! Even if the work is ultimately irrelevant to the question, you can lose points if it is wrong.

Do you have students who need extra support in math? Give your students more opportunities to consolidate learning and practice skills through personalized math tutoring with their own dedicated online math tutor. Each student receives differentiated instruction designed to close their individual learning gaps, and scaffolded learning ensures every student learns at the right pace. Lessons are aligned with your state’s standards and assessments, plus you’ll receive regular reports every step of the way. Personalized one-on-one math tutoring programs are available for: – 2nd grade tutoring – 3rd grade tutoring – 4th grade tutoring – 5th grade tutoring – 6th grade tutoring – 7th grade tutoring – 8th grade tutoring Why not learn more about how it works ?

The content in this article was originally written by Anantha Anilkumar at Third Space Learning and has since been revised and adapted for US schools by elementary math teacher Katie Keeton.

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69 Challenging Word Problems for 5th Graders

October 17, 2023 //  by  Seda Unlucay

We know how hard it can be to come up with thought provoking word problems in the middle of a math lesson, so we’ve taken the pressure off by creating a grandiose list that’s perfect for your 5th graders. These multi-step word problems incorporate addition , subtraction , multiplication , and division as well as; time , money, place value , and fractions . Since they involve more than one step, your students should be encouraged to express their thinking with pictures and words to help solve and check each problem. Reference this helpful list of word problems when planning your next math lesson!

1. Jamie traveled 4325 km in 640 days. How many kilometers did he travel on average each day?

2. miss jones gave her students the number 30,808 and asked them to write the number in expanded form. tammy wrote (3 x 10,000) + (8 x 10) + (8 x 1). jack wrote (3 x 10,000) + (8 x 100) + (8 x 1). who is correct explain your reasoning., 3. james bought crayons for $2.50 and erasers for $4.50. how much change did he get back if he paid with a $20 bill, 4. there are 89 puppies for sale at the pet store. 16 are black and 34 are brown. the rest have spots. how many puppies have spots, 5. terrance and his three friends earned $359 in august, $522 in july, and $420 in september selling lemonade. how much would they each earn if they divided their earnings equally, 6. steve and paul were playing football. steve gained 82 yards and paul gained 35 yards. what was the total number of yards gained by both boys during the game, 7. patrick bought lunch at the school fair. he bought 3 hotdogs for $4.50 each and 2 hamburgers for $5.60 each. he also used a coupon for $2 off the price of lunch. how much money did he spend on lunch altogether, 8. the school bus seats 85 students. at the first stop, 16 students got off the bus. at the second stop, another 18 students got off the bus. how many students were left on the bus, 9. sandra spent $135 on new clothes. she bought a blouse for $48 and two t-shirts for $23 each. how much money does she have leftover, 10. four teachers handed out pencils to their students. two classes had 24 students each, the third class had 29 students and the fourth one had 27 students. how many pencils were handed out in all, 11. andrew was watching the chimpanzees at the zoo. 45 of them were eating bugs, 36 were playing with sticks and the rest were napping. if there were 122 chimpanzees in all, how many were napping, 12. william feeds his fish 8 containers of fish food each day. each container costs $3.25. how much money does william spend on fish food in one week, 13. elizabeth is making shell necklaces for her 7 friends. she needs 23 seashells to make each necklace. she has 89 seashells collected so far. how many more seashells does she need to make all 7 necklaces , 14. edward and carl were playing a video game. edward scored 835 points and carl scored 345 points. how many more points did edward score than carl, 15. ava bought 8 cookies for $2.25 each, 5 chocolate bars for $1.50 each, and 6 cupcakes for $1.25 each. how much change should she get back if she paid with a $50 bill, 16. 320 people visited the amusement park on saturday. four times as many visited on sunday. how many people visited the amusement park on the weekend , 17. stephanie bought 45 plain cookies for $2.20 each. she decorated them with icing and sold them for $3.75 each. how much profit did she make selling her decorated cookies , 18. miles made 45 t-shirts to sell online. he sold each one for $30 but she had to pay $8.50 tax for each shirt. how much money did he make in all, 19. amy went to the gym for 15 years. she trained three times a week every year. how many times did she go to the gym in 15 years, 20. lisa sold sweaters. she sold 899 sweaters in her first year in business, 1450 in her second year, and 2450 in her third year. how much did she make in total if each sweater cost $29   , 21. tyler was catching butterflies. in the first hour, he caught 7 butterflies. in the second hour, he caught 9. in the third hour, he caught 11. if this pattern continued, how many hours would it take him to catch more than 60 butterflies, 22. peter sees 144 cars drive by his house per week. how many cars does he see over 3 years , 23. shannon has to reserve buses for a field trip. she has 271 children, 12 teachers, and 9 parents. each bus can seat 22 passengers. how many buses would she need and how many spare seats would be left, 24. john wants to bake 1400 cupcakes for the school bake sale. he can bake 36 cupcakes per day. he has already baked 396. how many days will it take him to bake 1400 cupcakes, 25. ben and his 4 friends read 60 books in one year. each book has an average of 235 pages. how many pages did they read in total in one year, 26. mandy is having a birthday party. she invited 25 friends and baked 432 cookies. she wants to share the cookies at her party but also wants to save 35 for her siblings. how many cookies will each person get at the party, 27. edward wanted to give away his stamps to 12 friends. he has 624 stamps. how many stamps will each friend get and how many will be left over, 28. movie tickets cost $24 per adult and 1/4 of that price per child. how much will a family with 2 adults and 5 children pay in total , 29. melissa earned $560 in september and only 2/5 of that in october. how much money did she earn in october, 30. paul ate 1¼ pizzas and sam ate 3 ¾ pizzas. how many pizzas did they eat in all, 31. jamie earned $800 in his first year in business. if he shares 3/4 of his earnings with his family, how much money will he have left, 32. sarah had to cut a 230 m piece of wood into 5 pieces. how long would each piece be after cutting, 33. a school of 385 students and 12 teachers was going camping and needed to reserve some buses. if one bus can carry 70 people, how many buses would they need, 34. james is selling his house. he will keep 70% of the profit and give 30% to his mother. if the house sells for $300,000, how much money will they each receive, 35. steven earned $200 during 1 week of work. the following week, he earned 30% more. how much money did he earn over 2 weeks, 36. alex made $540 selling buttons at a garage sale and andy made 2/5 of alex’s amount. how much money did andy make , 37. jennifer has a backyard that is 13m by 9m. she wants to add a garden that will measure 7m by 4m. how many meters of space will she have leftover in her backyard , 38. sandra bought $250 worth of school supplies. the store was having a sale so she got a 30% discount. how much did she have to pay, 39. danny was building a large playhouse for his daughter. the perimeter of the dollhouse was a square. if one side was 21m long, how long would the entire perimeter be , 40. kimberly painted a new painting. she spent $530 on paint, $223 on the easel, $55 on the frame, and $421 on the canvas. she sold her painting for $3264. how much profit did she make, 41. kyle, jack, and jamie went to a pizza party where they each ate 3¼ slices of pizza. how many pizza slices did they eat in all, 42. sam made $500 selling baseball cards in february. he made 40% more than that in march. how much did he earn over the months, 43. mary wants to add a carpet to her living room. the area of her living room is 123m2 and the carpet costs $8 per square meter. how much would the carpet cost in total, 44. amy was buying snacks for a party. she bought 35 bags of chips that cost $2.50 each, 6 bottles of soda at $4.50 each, and a large cake that cost $77. how much did she spend in total on the party, 45. samantha wanted to add some new wallpaper to her walls. each wall was 8m by 13m and she had 7 walls to cover. how much area did she have to cover in all, 46. pam bought a new laundry machine for $1500 and a dryer for $850. she got a 20% on the total. how much did she have to pay, 47. tammy bought a packet of stickers with 78 stickers inside. she decided to keep 2/3 of them and give 1/3 to her sister. how many stickers did her sister get, 48. james earned $900 in october mowing lawns. sam earned 8/9 of that amount. how much money did sam earn, 49. patricia cut a chocolate bar into equal pieces to share with 3 friends. if the chocolate bar was 42.6 cm long, how long were each of the three pieces, 50. james ate 4/5 of a cake and amy ate 2/3. how much did they eat altogether , 51. stanley’s parents agreed to let him buy a new video game console if he paid for half of it. they gave him the $180 for their portion. if stanley has saved $108.70 so far, how much more money does he need to buy the console , 52. stephanie made brownies for the class bake sale. the box says that the pan will make 12 servings. if each serving is 250 calories, how many calories would the entire pan have , 53. every month the smith family pays $45 for their basic cell phone plan plus $6.95 for each of their 4 phones. they also pay $29.99 for a data and texting plan and an additional $7.45 in taxes. how much is their monthly bill , 54. a beetle is about 3/4 of an inch long. a rattlesnake is about 30 times longer. how long is a rattlesnake, 55. yasmine needed 45 facts about giraffes for her science project. she recorded 2/5 of the facts she needed from her first book, 12 facts from the second book, and 1/9 of the facts she needed from the third book. how many more facts does she need to complete her project, 56. jack’s comic book collection contains 125 marvel comics and 150 dc comics. if he decides to donate 1/5 of his marvel comics and 1/4 of his dc comics to the school library, how many comic books will he donate in total.

hard math problems to solve for 5th graders

57. Lola spent 1/2 of her pocket money on a toy car and 1/3 of the remaining on a coloring book. If she had $60 at the beginning, how much money does she have left?

hard math problems to solve for 5th graders

58. In a school, 2/5 of the students prefer soccer over any other sport. If there are 500 students, how many prefer soccer?

hard math problems to solve for 5th graders

59. Olivia baked 10 dozen cookies for a bake sale. Each dozen was sold for $8.50. How much money did Olivia make from the bake sale?

hard math problems to solve for 5th graders

60. If Ethan read 2 books per day for a week, how many books did he read in total?

hard math problems to solve for 5th graders

61. A rectangle has a length of 15 cm and a width of 7 cm. What is the perimeter of the rectangle?

hard math problems to solve for 5th graders

62. Noah wants to buy a new video game that costs $60. He has already saved $35. How much more money does he need to save to buy the video game?

hard math problems to solve for 5th graders

63. Anna has 3 bags of marbles. Each bag contains 48 marbles. She gives 2 marbles to each of her 12 friends. How many marbles does she have left?

hard math problems to solve for 5th graders

64. Matthew and Emma decided to divide their collection of 60 stickers equally. If Matthew decided to give 1/3 of his stickers to his sister, how many stickers does Matthew have left?

hard math problems to solve for 5th graders

65. Harper has a fish tank that can hold 30 gallons of water. She fills it up to 7/10 of its capacity. How much water is in the fish tank?

hard math problems to solve for 5th graders

66. Chloe has to read a 320-page book for school. She already read 175 pages. How many pages does she have left to read?

hard math problems to solve for 5th graders

67. Jackson is saving to buy a bike that costs $250. He saves $25 from his allowance each week. How many weeks will it take for Jackson to save enough money to buy the bike?

hard math problems to solve for 5th graders

68. Zoe has 36 stickers. She wants to give equal amounts to her 4 friends. How many stickers will each friend get?

hard math problems to solve for 5th graders

69. Ryan’s mom bought him 2 packs of baseball cards. Each pack has 12 cards in it. Ryan already had 7 cards. How many baseball cards does Ryan have now?

hard math problems to solve for 5th graders

Maths Problems with Answers for Grade 5

Grade 5 maths problems with answers are presented. Also Solutions and explanations are included.

  • Three toy cars and 4 toy trains cost $18. Two toy cars and 3 toy trains cost $13. What is the price of one toy car and the price of one toy train if both prices are whole numbers of Dollars? (Hint: Use a table) Solution
  • 450 chocolate bars
  • 4 hours and 30 minutes
  • 11,800 TV sets
  • Tom: 22 , Bob: 27
  • same time , 12 minutes
  • Jim: 5 years , Carla: 10 years , Tomy: 16 years
  • 10,080 minutes
  • 700 meters squared
  • 114 centimeters squared
  • one toy car costs $2 and 1 toy train costs $3.

More References and links

Primary Maths (grades 4 and 5) with Free Questions and Problems With Answers Middle School Maths (grades 6,7,8 and 9) with Free Questions and Problems With Answers High School Maths (Grades 10, 11 and 12) - Free Questions and Problems With Answers

  • Grades 6-12
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Black History Month for Kids: Google Slides, Resources, and More!

Check Out These 50 Fifth Grade Math Word Problems of the Day

Three trains pulled into the station at 3 p.m.

hard math problems to solve for 5th graders

Opening your daily math lesson with a Fifth Grade Math Word Problem of the Day is an excellent way to set the stage for learning! Incorporate them at the start of your math block to build confidence, critical thinking skills, and a learning community. Students will get used to reading for meaning while also identifying key information. Encourage students to write out equations and draw pictures to explain their thinking, since this helps them see the light when they are stuck!

Topics in these fifth grade math word problems cover patterns and place value, addition and subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions, decimals, measurement, and comparisons.

Want this entire set of word problems in one easy document? Get your free Google Sheet bundle by submitting your email here . All you need to do is post one of the problems on your whiteboard or projector screen. Then let kids take it from there.

50 Fifth Grade Math Word Problems

1. three trains pulled into the station at 3 p.m. the menton train had 2,589 passengers. the reston train had 671 passengers. the pearson city train had 1,024 passengers. how many passengers were there all together.

Three trains pulled into the station at 3 p.m. The Menton train had 2,589 passengers. The Reston train had 671 passengers. The Pearson City train had 1,024 passengers. How many passengers were there all together?- fifth Grade Math Word Problems

2. Grow Up Farmer’s Market had 4 crates of lemons delivered. One crate had 2,100 lemons. Two other crates had 2,010 lemons. The last crate had 1,999 lemons. How many lemons were delivered in all?

Grow Up Farmer’s Market had 4 crates of lemons delivered. One crate had 2,100 lemons. Two other crates had 2,010 lemons. The last crate had 1,999 lemons. How many lemons were delivered in all?

3. Ruffle Truffle Candy Company got an order for 850 chocolate truffles from the candy shop. They also got an order for 7,309 truffles from a food store. Then one more order came in for 3,125 truffles from a restaurant. How many truffles does the factory have to make to fill these orders?

Ruffle Truffle Candy Company got an order for 850 chocolate truffles from the candy shop. They also got an order for 7,309 truffles from a food store. Then one more order came in for 3,125 truffles from a restaurant. How many truffles does the factory have to make to fill these orders?

4. The Tri-City Peninsula has 3 cities. 405,245 people live in Sunset City. 695,212 people live in Sunrise City. 415,937 people live in Sunup City. How many people live on Tri-City Peninsula all together?

The Tri-City Peninsula has 3 cities. 405,245 people live in Sunset City. 695,212 people live in Sunrise City. 415,937 people live in Sunup City. How many people live on Tri-City Peninsula all together?- fifth Grade Math Word Problems

5. Smiley’s Greeting Card Store ordered 25,294 birthday cards and 15,280 Mother’s Day cards to sell last year. They sold 11,065 Mother’s Day cards and 24,229 birthday cards. How many birthday cards did they have left?

Smiley’s Greeting Card Store ordered 25,294 birthday cards and 15,280 Mother’s Day cards to sell last year. They sold 11,065 Mother’s Day cards and 24,229 birthday cards. How many birthday cards did they have left?

6. Flyaway Airlines has 3 flights to New Park City every day from San Sandoz. Each plane seats 400 passengers. On Monday, the first flight had 325 passengers. The second flight had 387 passengers. The third flight had 221 passengers. How many empty seats were there all together?

Flyaway Airlines has 3 flights to New Park City every day from San Sandoz. Each plane seats 400 passengers. On Monday, the first flight had 325 passengers. The second flight had 387 passengers. The third flight had 221 passengers. How many empty seats were there all together?- fifth Grade Math Word Problems

7. In 1999 a million people lived in Western Deskateria. 350,268 are native to that country. The rest have moved there from another country. How many people have moved there from somewhere else?

In 1999 a million people lived in Western Deskateria. 350,268 are native to that country. The rest have moved there from another country. How many people have moved there from somewhere else?

8. Birthday candles from The Happy Hippy Candle Company are sold in packs of 8. They manufactured 6,000 boxes this past week and sold 8,000 candles. How many boxes of candles did they sell this past week?

Birthday candles from The Happy Hippy Candle Company are sold in packs of 8. They manufactured 6,000 boxes this past week and sold 8,000 candles. How many boxes of candles did they sell this past week?

9. Some of the new books in the South City Library were non-fiction. There were 25,025 new hardback books and 7,333 new paperbacks. 15,000 hardbacks were fiction. How many hardback books were non-fiction?

Some of the new books in the South City Library were non-fiction. There were 25,025 new hardback books and 7,333 new paperbacks. 15,000 hardbacks were fiction. How many hardback books were non-fiction?- fifth Grade Math Word Problems

10. Giganto Mall has 6 levels. The top 5 levels each have 2,950 workers. There are 15,000 workers at the mall. How many workers work on the bottom level?

Giganto Mall has 6 levels. The top 5 levels each have 2,950 workers. There are 15,000 workers at the mall. How many workers work on the bottom level?

11. There are 96 frozen turkeys and 65 hams in the meat freezer at Frosty Food Mart. Each turkey weighs 19 pounds. Each ham weighs 10 pounds. How much do the turkeys weigh all together?

There are 96 frozen turkeys and 65 hams in the meat freezer at Frosty Food Mart. Each turkey weighs 19 pounds. Each ham weighs 10 pounds. How much do the turkeys weigh all together?- fifth Grade Math Word Problems

12. Each new dictionary purchased for the school has 355 pages. There are 35 dictionaries ready for each classroom. They weigh almost 300 pounds. How many pages is that in total?

Each new dictionary purchased for the school has 355 pages. There are 35 dictionaries ready for each classroom. They weigh almost 300 pounds. How many pages is that in total?

13. Each Penguin Fruit Tree has 10,251 leaves. There were 96 fruit trees in Uncle Arch’s Orchard. Half of them were Penguin Fruit Trees. How many leaves were there on those Penguin Fruit Trees all together?

Each Penguin Fruit Tree has 10,251 leaves. There were 96 fruit trees in Uncle Arch’s Orchard. Half of them were Penguin Fruit Trees. How many leaves were there on those Penguin Fruit Trees all together?- fifth Grade Math Word Problems

14. Benny’s Bait Shop sells worms in 12 packs. There are twelve packs in a gross. They sold 12 gross of worms this week. How many worms did they sell this week?

Benny’s Bait Shop sells worms in 12 packs. There are twelve packs in a gross. They sold 12 gross of worms this week. How many worms did they sell this week?

15. The Kwik Kar Rental Company has 27 locations in 12 states. They have 1,350 cars to rent out. If they distribute all the cars evenly among their locations, how many cars will each location get?

The Kwik Kar Rental Company has 27 locations in 12 states. They have 1,350 cars to rent out. If they distribute all the cars evenly among their locations, how many cars will each location get?

16. It was a sellout crowd at the football game. There were 42,500 fans in attendance. Every seat was filled. There are 85 rows of seats that wrap around the stadium. There is the same number of seats in every row. How many fans were seated in each row?

It was a sellout crowd at the football game. There were 42,500 fans in attendance. Every seat was filled. There are 85 rows of seats that wrap around the stadium. There is the same number of seats in every row. How many fans were seated in each row?- fifth Grade Math Word Problems

17. Mr. Sketch had 180 colored pencils in his classroom art bin. He bought new boxes of colored pencils that had 10 in a box. Now he has 400 colored pencils. How many new boxes did he buy?

18. 4,500 people arrived at the stadium for the rock concert on buses. another 4,500 came by train. the rest came in cars. each bus could hold 225 people and every bus was filled. how many buses were there.

4,500 people arrived at the stadium for the rock concert on buses. Another 4,500 came by train. The rest came in cars. Each bus could hold 225 people and every bus was filled. How many buses were there?

19. Super Duper Corporation pays rent on their big headquarters building every month. Last year they paid $60,756 in rent and about the same amount on heat. They pay the same amount every month for the rent. How much is the rent per month?

Super Duper Corporation pays rent on their big headquarters building every month. Last year they paid $60,756 in rent and about the same amount on heat. They pay the same amount every month for the rent. How much is the rent per month?

20. Straight Arrow Dress Shirts sold a lot of dress shirts last month. Each shirt has 7 buttons down the front and 1 button on each sleeve. They used 72,000 buttons on the shirts sold last month. How many shirts did they sell?

Straight Arrow Dress Shirts sold a lot of dress shirts last month. Each shirt has 7 buttons down the front and 1 button on each sleeve. They used 72,000 buttons on the shirts sold last month. How many shirts did they sell?- fifth Grade Math Word Problems

21. Lake Louie has boats that take tourists on cruises around the lake. On Saturday, 8,112 tourists wanted to cruise around the lake. 3 boats cruise at a time in a shift. Each boat holds 500 people. A cruise lasts 30 minutes. How many shifts did they need to run so every tourist could cruise?

hard math problems to solve for 5th graders

22. Superstar Sam is a professional baseball player and practices pitching every day. He spent 12,000 minutes practicing his pitching in July. He practices batting for 1 hour each week. How many hours did he practice his pitching in July?

Superstar Sam is a professional baseball player and practices pitching every day. He spent 12,000 minutes practicing his pitching in July. He practices batting for 1 hour each week. How many hours did he practice his pitching in July?- fifth Grade Math Word Problems

23. The new sidewalk leading up to the front door of Elemental Elementary School was 55 feet long and 36 inches wide. 25 feet of it were painted gold and the rest was silver. How many inches long was the silver section?

The new sidewalk leading up to the front door of Elemental Elementary School was 55 feet long and 36 inches wide. 25 feet of it were painted gold and the rest was silver. How many inches long was the silver section?

24. The Dig-It Mining Company dug up 12,000 pounds of a rare mineral, Bobodium, every day for a week. They sell it in 8-ounce boxes. How many boxes will they need to pack up that week’s Bobodium?

The Dig-It Mining Company dug up 12,000 pounds of a rare mineral, Bobodium, every day for a week. They sell it in 8 ounce boxes. How many boxes will they need to pack up that week’s Bobodium?

25. Rita Writealot, the famous author, is visiting Collegial College and giving everyone who attends one of her two lectures 2 of her books. 600 people came to her first lecture. The second lecture had a good turnout also. She gave out 2,468 books all together. How many people came to her second lecture?

Rita Writealot, the famous author, is visiting Collegial College and giving everyone who attends one of her two lectures, 2 of her books. 600 people came to her first lecture. The second lecture had a good turnout also. She gave out 2,468 books all together. How many people came to her second lecture?- fifth Grade Math Word Problems

26. Mr. Amazing is preparing his magic act. There are 12,366 gold coins that he uses in one of his acts. He uses some in each scheduled appearance. He put aside 229 gold coins for each appearance. How many appearances is he planning on?

Mr. Amazing is preparing his magic act. He has 12,366 gold coins that he uses in one of his acts. He uses some in each scheduled appearance. He put aside 229 gold coins for each appearance. How many appearances is he planning on?

27. Rick has 4/5 of a Choco-bar. Sid has 6/7 of a Choco-bar. Nick has 6/8 of a Choco-bar. Who has the biggest piece of a Choco-bar?

28. ginny has 6/4 of some watermelons. william has 3/9 of another watermelon. steve has ½ of a different watermelon. who has the smallest amount of watermelon.

Ginny has 6/4 of some watermelons. William has 3/9 of another watermelon. Steve has ½ of a different watermelon. Who has the smallest amount of watermelon?- fifth Grade Math Word Problems

29. Luz is going to make a cheese dip. She bought ½ pound of American cheese. She also bought ¾ pound of Swiss cheese and ¼ pound of cheddar cheese. How much cheese did she buy?

Luz is going to make a cheese dip. She bought ½ pound of American cheese. She also bought ¾ pound of Swiss cheese and ¼ pound of Cheddar cheese. How much cheese did she buy?

30. Mercy had to select how much of a pepperoni pizza she wanted. She could have 7/8, 8/16, or 8/10. If she wants the most pizza, which amount should she choose?

Mercy had to select how much of a pepperoni pizza she wanted. She could have 7/8, 8/16, or 8/10. If she wants the most pizza, which amount should she choose?

31. Explorer Elmo Adventure found an ancient site with gold bars. He found three. The first was 5/12 of a pound. The second bar was 7/12 of a pound, and the third was 3/6 of a pound. How much did the bars weigh all together?

Explorer Elmo Adventure found an ancient site with gold bars. He found three. The first was 5/12 of a pound. The second bar was 7/12 of a pound, and the third was 3/6 of a pound. How much did the bars weigh all together?- fifth Grade Math Word Problems

32. Sandy had 3/4 of a loaf of fresh-baked bread her mom made. She gave half of it to her cousin Stella. How much of the loaf did Sandy have left?

Sandy had 3/4 of a loaf of fresh baked bread her mom made. She gave half of it to her cousin Stella. How much of the loaf did Sandy have left?

33. The fifth grade teacher, Ms. Marvelous, had 9/10 of an apple pie. She gave 3/10 to her principal, Mr. Pal, and 3/10 to her co-teacher, Mrs. Merry. How much pie did Ms. Marvelous have left?

The fifth grade teacher, Ms. Marvelous, had 9/10 of an apple pie. She gave 3/10 to her principal, Mr. Pal, and 3/10 to her co-teacher, Mrs. Merry. How much pie did Ms. Marvelous have left?

34. Grace was laying pieces of ribbon she had end-to-end. The blue piece was 3/12 of a foot. The red piece was ½ of a foot and the white piece was 8/12 of a foot long. How long was the total?

Grace was laying pieces of ribbon she had end-to-end. The blue piece was 3/12 of a foot. The red piece was ½ of a foot and the white piece was 8/12 of a foot long. How long was the total?- fifth Grade Math Word Problems

35. Rob was reading a book that had 400 pages. He read 1/3 of it on Monday and another ¼ of it on Tuesday. What fraction of the book does he have left to read?

Rob was reading a book that had 400 pages. He read 1/3 of it on Monday and another ¼ of it on Tuesday. What fraction of the book does he have left to read?

36. Ty had ½ of his whole birthday cake left. He gave his sister, Janelle, ¼ of that. How much of the whole cake did Janelle get?

Ty had ½ of his whole birthday cake left. He gave his sister, Janelle, ¼ of that. How much of the whole cake did Janelle get?

37. The high school football team was meeting for the first time for practice. There were 64 players. ¾ of them were seniors. The rest were underclassmen. How many players were underclassmen?

The high school football team was meeting for the first time for practice. There were 64 players. ¾ of them were seniors. The rest were underclassmen. How many players were underclassmen?- fifth Grade Math Word Problems

38. The treasure hunters dug up a shoebox with $1,500 in it. There were five people on the treasure hunter team, so each got to keep 1/5 of the money. How much money did each person get to keep?

The treasure hunters dug up a shoebox with $1,500 in it. There were five people on the treasure hunter team, so each got to keep 1/5 of the money. How much money did each person get to keep?

39. Tristan only has 1/8 of his deck left to paint. The whole deck has a total area of 100 square feet. He figured he could get ½ of what’s left done on Friday and the rest on Saturday. What fraction of the total deck does he plan to paint on Saturday?

40. three friends were keeping track of their running. these are the results from their runs on saturday. paige ran 0.75 miles. tanner ran 0.09 miles. liza ran 0.706 miles. who ran the farthest.

Three friends were keeping track of their running. These are the results from their runs on Saturday. Paige ran 0.75 miles. Tanner ran 0.09 miles. Liza ran 0.706 miles. Who ran the farthest?- fifth Grade Math Word Problems

41. Gary’s professional kickball cards are divided among 3 teams. ¼ of his cards are San Fransisco Seals players. 0.25 are New York Yaks players. The rest play for the Nova Scotia Salmon. What decimal would best describe how much of his collection is Salmon players?

Gary’s professional kickball cards are divided among 3 teams. ¼ of his cards are San Fransisco Seals players. 0.25 are New York Yaks players. The rest play for the Nova Scotia Salmon. What decimal would best describe how much of his collection is Salmon players?

42. Molly the miner was weighing small amounts of gold dust. She had 3 packets of gold dust. They weighed 0.29 ounces, 1.07 ounces, and 0.92 ounces. She has to get 3 ounces of gold dust before she sells it. How much more gold dust does she need to make the sale?

Molly the miner was weighing small amounts of gold dust. She had 3 packets of gold dust. They weighed 0.29 ounces, 1.07 ounces, and 0.92 ounces. She has to get 3 ounces of gold dust before she sells it. How much more gold dust does she need to make the sale?

43. Heather has 4 bank accounts. The first has $25.09 in it. The second has $106.75 in it and the third and fourth each have $108.08 in them. What is the total amount of money Heather has in these accounts?

44. each member of kirk’s family got a payment of $1,070.09 from their family business. there are 12 people in kirk’s family, including him. they range in age from 12 to 99. how much did the family get paid in total.

Each member of Kirk’s family got a payment of $1,070.09 from their family business. There are 12 people in Kirk’s family, including him. They range in age from 12 to 99. How much did the family get paid in total?

45. The number of t-shirts Ollie sells at the flea market runs in a predictable pattern. He sold 120 shirts in January, 60 shirts in February, 240 shirts in March, 120 shirts in April, 480 shirts in May, and 240 shirts in June. If the pattern of sales continues, how many shirts will he sell in August?

The number of t-shirts Ollie sells at the flea market runs in a predictable pattern. He sold 120 shirts in January, 60 shirts in February, 240 shirts in March, 120 shirts in April, 480 shirts in May, and 240 shirts in June. If the pattern of sales continues, how many shirts will he sell in August?

46. A number code is used to unlock the special vault. Three numbers must be entered in the correct order on a keypad numbered 0-100. The first is an odd number less than 20 that has 2 digits, both the same. The second number is even and is ½ of the number that is ¼ of 16. The third number is the product of the first two numbers and then doubled. What is the code?

A number code is used to unlock the special vault. Three numbers must be entered in the correct order on a keypad numbered 0-100. The first is an odd number less than 20 that has 2 digits, both the same. The second number is even and is ½ of the number that is ¼ of 16. The third number is the product of the first two numbers and then doubled. What is the code?- fifth Grade Math Word Problems

47. Kim noticed this pattern on an old piece of parchment. 2, 5, 11, 23, 47, 95. Kim figured out the next two numbers. What are they?

Kim noticed this pattern on an old piece of parchment. 2, 5, 11, 23, 47, 95. Kim figured out the next two numbers. What are they?

48. Al is 5 years older than Ted. Ted is 2 years older than Alice. Alice is a year younger than Fran. Fran is 8 years old. How old is Al?

Al is 5 years older than Ted. Ted is 2 years older than Alice. Alice is a year younger than Fran. Fran is 8 years old. How old is Al?

49. Liam finally got to the ferry dock at 4 p.m. He had taken the train to the ferry from Chairtown station. That train took half an hour to get to the ferry. To get to the station, he had driven for 4 and a half hours from Deskville Airport. He flew to Deskville from Tabletown Airport that morning. The flight was 2 and a half hours. What time did he fly out of Tabletown Airport?

hard math problems to solve for 5th graders

50. Chris worked three jobs on Saturday. She mowed a lawn and finished it at 6 p.m. She washed windows for 3 hours. Also, she washed, waxed, and vacuumed 3 cars. Each car took an hour and a half to do. Chris started her day working at 9 a.m. How many minutes did it take her to mow the lawn?

Chris worked three jobs on Saturday. She mowed a lawn and finished it at 6 p.m. She washed windows for 3 hours. She also washed, waxed, and vacuumed 3 cars. Each car took an hour and a half to do. Chris started her day working at 9 a.m. How many minutes did it take her to mow the lawn?- fifth Grade Math Word Problems

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Check Out These 50 Fourth Grade Math Word Problems of the Day

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5th Grade Math Word Problems Worksheets

Math word problem worksheets for grade 5.

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hard math problems to solve for 5th graders

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Unit 2: add decimals, unit 3: subtract decimals, unit 4: add and subtract fractions, unit 5: multi-digit multiplication and division, unit 6: multiply fractions, unit 7: divide fractions, unit 8: multiply decimals, unit 9: divide decimals, unit 10: powers of ten, unit 11: volume, unit 12: coordinate plane, unit 13: algebraic thinking, unit 14: converting units of measure, unit 15: line plots, unit 16: properties of shapes.

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5th Grade math problems worksheets with answers: Practice makes perfect

If you have a 5th grader who loves solving math all the time or needs some motivation and extra practice to perfect their problem-solving skills in math, you've come to the right place! This article will offer you outstanding 5th Grade math problems worksheets with answer s fit to challenge even the most savvy math whiz.

Solving 5th Grade math problems: Worksheets with step-by-step answers

Get ready to make math a thrilling adventure for your 5 th graders with a range of fun and easy solving 5th Grade math problems . These worksheets are given with step-by-step answers sheets guide, helpful in assessing student performance and solving skills quickly.

These exciting 5th Grade math problems worksheets with answers cover topics such as addition and subtraction, multiplication and division, fractions and decimals, geometry and measurement, data and probability, and more.

In addition to the types of worksheets, this article will give you 10 awesome math problems for 5th grade with solutions and tips and tell you how to use math problems worksheets to prepare for tests and assessments. And finally, we'll point you to some of the best free and paid resources where you can find more math problems worksheets for 5th grade. Ready to dive in? Let's go!

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5th Grade math problems worksheets with answers: Practice makes perfect - How do you solve multi step word problems?

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How to make math fun and engaging for your 5th grader.

Math can be challenging for many students, especially as they advance to higher grades and encounter more complex concepts and operations. Some students may feel bored, frustrated, or anxious about math and lose interest or confidence in their abilities. That's why it's important to make math fun and engaging for your 5th grader and to show them that math is practical, enjoyable, and rewarding.

Here are some tips on how to make math fun and engaging for your 5th grader

  • Use games, puzzles, riddles, and brainteasers to stimulate your child's curiosity and creativity . Games can help your child develop logical thinking, problem-solving, and strategic skills and reinforce essential math facts and operations. You can find many online games suitable for 5th graders or create your games using cards, dice, dominoes, or other materials.

You can also ask your child questions that require them to use math skills or concepts, such as "How much change will we get if we buy this item?" or "How long will it take us to drive to this destination?"

You can help your child discover the connections between math and their hobbies or passions by exposing them to books, videos, websites, podcasts, or other resources that showcase the beauty and diversity of math.

  • Praise your child's efforts and achievements in math . Math can be challenging sometimes, but it can also be very satisfying when your child solves a problem or learns a new concept. You can boost your child's confidence and motivation by acknowledging their hard work and progress in math and celebrating their successes. You can also encourage your child to set goals for themselves in math and to track their improvement over time.

The benefits of using worksheets to practice and reinforce math skills

One of the best ways to make math fun and engaging for your 5th grader is to use worksheets to practice and reinforce math skills. Worksheets are practical tools for learning and reviewing math concepts and operations. Also, they are versatile, flexible, and customizable. You can use worksheets to supplement your child's school curriculum or homework assignments and worksheets as independent practice or enrichment activities.

Here are some of the benefits of using worksheets to practice and reinforce math skills :

  • Worksheets provide structured and organized practice for your child . Worksheets help your child focus on specific topics or skills they need to master or improve in math. Worksheets also provide clear instructions, examples, and feedback for your child.
  • Worksheets offer variety and challenges for your child . Worksheets can include questions or tasks requiring your child to apply their knowledge or skills differently. Worksheets can also vary in difficulty level, so you can choose the ones that suit your child's needs or goals.
  • Worksheets allow your child to work at their own pace and level . Worksheets give your child the freedom and flexibility to work on math problems whenever needed. Worksheets allow your child to work at their own pace and level; they can skip or repeat questions.
  • Worksheets foster self-reliance and independence for your child . Worksheets encourage your child to take responsibility for their learning in math. Worksheets also foster self-reliance and independence for your child; they can check their answers using the answer keys provided or the hints or tips in some worksheets.

Discover Mathskills4kids.com 5th Grade math problems worksheets with answers

If you're looking for high-quality, engaging, and challenging math problems worksheets for 5th graders, you've come to the right place! At Mathskills4kids.com , we have created a collection of 5th Grade math problems worksheets with answers covering all the major topics and skills your child needs to know and practice in grade.

Mathskills4kids’ math problems worksheets are designed to help your child develop and improve their math skills and prepare them for tests and assessments. These math problems worksheets are also aligned with the Common Core State Standards for Mathematics, so you can be sure your child is learning the right content and skills for their grade level.

Mathskills4kids math problems worksheets for 5th graders include the following topics:

  • Addition and Subtraction Word Problems
  • Multiplication and Division Word Problems
  • Fractions and Decimals Word Problems
  • Geometry and Measurement Word Problems
  • Data and Probability Word Problems

Each topic has several worksheets that contain different types of word problems requiring your child to use different strategies or methods to solve them. Some word problems are simple; others are more complex and multi-step. Some word problems are realistic and relatable; others are more abstract or creative. Some word problems are easy and familiar; others are more difficult and novel. The word problems challenge your child's thinking and reasoning skills and test their understanding and application of math concepts and operations.

Also, each worksheet has an answer key showing the correct solution and explanation for each problem. Some worksheets also include hints or tips that provide additional guidance or support for your child. You can use these hints or tips to help your child if they get stuck or need a clue.

Addition and subtraction word problems

Addition and subtraction are two of the most basic and essential math skills your child needs to master in 5th grade. Addition and subtraction are used to perform calculations with whole numbers, decimals, or fractions and to solve various word problems involving adding or subtracting quantities, distances, times, money, etc.

In 5th grade, your child is expected to be able to add and subtract multi-digit whole numbers, decimals up to thousandths, and fractions with unlike denominators. Your child is also expected to be able to solve word problems that involve addition and subtraction of these types of numbers, using different strategies such as estimation, rounding, regrouping, decomposing, or using properties of operations.

To help your child practice and reinforce their addition and subtraction skills, we have created several worksheets that contain different types of addition and subtraction word problems .

Below are some examples of addition and subtraction word problems:

  • Alice has 3,456 stickers in her collection. She buys 2 more packs of stickers, each containing 128 stickers. How many stickers does Alice have in total?
  • Ben has $45.67 in his bank account. He withdraws $12.50 to buy a gift for his friend. How much money does Ben have left in his account?
  • Cindy has 2/3 of a pizza left over from lunch. She eats another 1/6 of a pizza for dinner. How much pizza does Cindy have left?
  • David ran 7.5 miles on Monday. He ran 2.25 miles less on Tuesday than on Monday. How many miles did David run on Tuesday?

Multiplication and division word problems

One of the most important math skills that your 5th grader needs to master is solving word problems involving multiplication and division. These problems require them to apply their knowledge of the four operations and their understanding of place value, factors, multiples, and patterns. They will also use logical reasoning and critical thinking to find the best strategy to solve each problem.

To help your 5th grader practice and improve their multiplication and division word problem skills, we have created a set of worksheets that cover a variety of scenarios and situations. Each worksheet has 10 problems, including one-step and multi-step problems and problems with remainders. The worksheets also include answer keys with detailed explanations and tips on how to solve each problem.

Fractions and decimals word problems

Another key topic your 5th grader needs to master is solving word problems involving fractions and decimals. These problems require them to apply their knowledge of equivalent fractions, simplifying fractions, comparing fractions, adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing fractions and decimals, and converting between fractions and decimals. They will also use estimation and rounding skills, proportional reasoning, and problem-solving strategies.

To help your 5th grader practice and improve their fractions and decimals word problem skills, we have created a set of worksheets that cover a variety of scenarios and situations. Each worksheet has 10 problems, including one-step and multi-step problems and problems with mixed numbers and improper fractions. The worksheets also include answer keys with detailed explanations and tips on how to solve each problem.

Geometry and measurement word problems

Another essential topic your 5th grader needs to master is solving word problems involving geometry and measurement. These problems require them to apply their knowledge of angles, polygons, circles, area, perimeter, volume, surface area, units of measurement, conversions, and coordinate grids. They will use spatial reasoning, geometric reasoning, and algebraic thinking skills to solve these problems.

To help your 5th grader practice and improve their geometry and measurement word problem skills, we have created a set of worksheets that cover a variety of scenarios and situations. Each worksheet has 10 problems, including one-step and multi-step problems and problems with diagrams and graphs. The worksheets also include answer keys with detailed explanations and tips on how to solve each problem.

Data and probability word problems

Another fun topic your 5th grader needs to master is solving word problems involving data and probability. These problems require them to apply their knowledge of mean, median, mode, range, graphs, tables, charts, surveys, experiments, outcomes, events, probability models, fractions, decimals, percentages, ratios, and rates. They will also use statistical reasoning and inferential thinking skills to analyze data and make predictions.

To help your 5th grader practice and improve their data and probability word problem skills, we have created a set of worksheets that cover a variety of scenarios and situations. Each worksheet has 10 problems, including one-step and multi-step problems and problems with graphs, tables, charts, and diagrams. The worksheets also include answer keys with detailed explanations and tips on how to solve each problem.

10 Awesome math problems for 5th Grade with solutions and tips

To give you a taste of our math problem worksheets for 5th grade, we have selected some of the most awesome math problems from each topic for you to try. These are not your typical math problems, but rather challenging and fun problems that will make your 5th grader think outside the box and use their creativity and logic to solve them. We have also provided the solutions and tips for each problem, so you can check your answers and learn from your mistakes.

Are you ready to take on these excellent math problems?

1. Multiplication Word Problem

Amanda has 12 boxes of chocolates. Each box has 24 pieces of chocolate. She wants to share them equally among her 18 friends. How many pieces of chocolate will each friend get?

Solution : To solve this problem, we need to multiply 12 by 24 to find Amanda's total number of pieces of chocolate. Then, we need to divide that number by 18 to find how many pieces of chocolate each friend will get.

12 x 24 = 288

288 ÷ 18 = 16

Therefore, each friend will get 16 pieces of chocolate.

Tip : To check your answer, reverse the operation and multiply 16 by 18 to see if you get back to 288.

2. Division Word Problem

A school bus can carry 48 students. 216 students are going on a field trip. How many buses will transport all the students?

Solution : To solve this problem, we will divide 216 by 48 to find how many buses are needed to transport all the students.

216 ÷ 48 = 4.5

However, we cannot have half a bus, so we must round up to the following number.

Therefore, 5 buses will transport all the students.

Tip : To check your answer, reverse the operation and multiply 5 by 48 to see if you get more than or equal to 216.

3. Fractions Word Problem

A recipe for a cake requires 3/4 cup of sugar. If you want to make one-third of the recipe, how much sugar do you need?

Solution : To solve this problem, we will multiply 3/4 by 1/3 to find how much sugar we need for half of the recipe.

3/4 x 1/3 = 3/12

Therefore, we need 3/12 cup of sugar for half of the recipe.

Tip : To simplify fractions, you can divide the numerator and the denominator by a common factor. For example, 3/12 can be simplified by dividing both by 3, which gives us 1/4.

4. Decimals Word Problem

A pizza costs $12.50 and has 8 slices. If you eat 3 slices, what fraction of the pizza did you eat? What percentage of the pizza did you eat? How much did you pay for the slices that you ate?

Solution : To solve this problem, we will find the fraction, percentage, and cost of the slices we ate.

To find the fraction, we will divide the number of slices we ate by the total number of slices in the pizza.

3 ÷ 8 = 3/8

Therefore, we ate 3/8 of the pizza.

To find the percentage, we will convert the fraction to a decimal and then multiply by 100.

3/8 = 0.375

0.375 x 100 = 37.5%

Therefore, we ate 37.5% of the pizza.

To find the cost per slice, we will divide the price of the pizza by the total number of slices in the pizza. Then, we will multiply that by the number of slices we ate.

12.50 ÷ 8 = 1.5625

1.5625 x 3 = 4.6875

Therefore, we paid $4.6875 for the slices that we ate.

Tip : To convert a fraction to a decimal, divide the numerator by the denominator. For example, 3/8 = 3 ÷ 8 = 0.375

5. Fraction of a whole word problem

A pizza is cut into 12 equal slices. Amy eats 3 slices, Ben eats 2, and Chris eats 4. What fraction of the pizza is left? How many slices are left?

Solution : To find the fraction of the pizza left, we will subtract the fractions that Amy, Ben, and Chris ate from the whole pizza. The whole pizza is 12/12 or 1. Amy ate 3/12, Ben ate 2/12, and Chris ate 4/12. So, we have:

1 - (3/12 + 2/12 + 4/12) = 1 - (9/12) = 1 - (3/4) = 1/4

So, the fraction of the pizza that is left is 1/4. To find how many slices are left, we can multiply the fraction by the total number of slices:

1/4 x 12 = 3

So, there are 3 slices left.

Tip : To subtract fractions with the same denominator, subtract the numerators and keep the denominator. To subtract fractions with different denominators, you must first find a common denominator.

6. Probability word problem

A bag contains 20 marbles: 8 red, 6 blue, and 6 green. What is the probability of randomly picking a red marble from the bag? What is the probability of picking a blue or a green marble?

Solution : To find the probability of an event, we need to divide the number of favorable outcomes by the total number of possible outcomes. In this case, the total number of possible outcomes is the number of marbles in the bag, which is 20. The number of favorable outcomes for picking a red marble is the number of red marbles in the bag, which is 8. So, we have:

P (red) = 8/20 = 2/5

So, the probability of picking a red marble is 2/5. To find the probability of picking a blue or green marble, we need to add the probabilities of picking a blue marble and a green marble. The number of favorable outcomes for picking a blue marble is the number of blue marbles in the bag, which is 6. The number of favorable outcomes for picking a green marble is also 6. So, we have:

P (blue) = 6/20 = 3/10

P (green) = 6/20 = 3/10

P (blue or green) = P (blue) + P (green) = 3/10 + 3/10 = 6/10 = 3/5

So, the probability of picking a blue or a green marble is 3/5.

Tip : To add fractions with the same denominator, add the numerators and keep the denominator. To add fractions with different denominators, you must first find a common denominator.

7. Geometry and measurement word problem

A rectangular prism has a length of 10 cm, a width of 6 cm, and a height of 4 cm. What is its volume? What is its surface area?

Solution: The volume of a rectangular prism is given by the formula: length × width × height. In this case, the length is 10 cm, the width is 6 cm, and the height is 4 cm. Therefore, the volume of the rectangular prism is:

10 cm × 6 cm × 4 cm = 240 cm³

The surface area of a rectangular prism can be calculated using the formula: 2lw + 2lh + 2wh, where l is length, w is width, and h, is height. In this case, we have:

2(10 cm × 6 cm) + 2(10 cm × 4 cm) + 2(6 cm × 4 cm) = 248 cm²

Therefore, the volume of the rectangular prism is  240 cubic centimeters , and its surface area is  248 square centimeters .

8. Addition and Subtraction Word Problem

Lucy has 12 red apples and 8 green apples in her basket. She gives 5 red apples and 3 green apples to her friend Amy. How many apples does Lucy have left in her basket?

Solution: To solve this problem, we need to use addition and subtraction. First, we need to find out how many apples Lucy had before giving some to Amy. We can do this by adding the number of red apples and the number of green apples:

12 + 8 = 20

Lucy had 20 apples in total.

Next, we will determine how many apples Lucy gave Amy in total. We can do this by adding the number of red apples and the number of green apples that she gave:

Lucy gave 8 apples to Amy.

Finally, we will find out how many apples Lucy has left in her basket. We can do this by subtracting the number of apples that she gave from the number of apples that she had:

20 - 8 = 12

Lucy has 12 apples left in her basket.

Tip : When solving word problems involving addition and subtraction, it helps to identify the keywords that indicate what operation to use. For example, words like "in total," "altogether," "combined," or "sum" indicate addition, while words like "left," "remain," "difference," or "take away" indicate subtraction.

9. Multiplication and Division Word Problem

A pack of pencils contains 12 pencils. How many packs of pencils are needed to supply a class of 30 students if each student needs 2 pencils?

Solution: To solve this problem, we will use multiplication and division. First, we will determine how many pencils are needed for the class. We can do this by multiplying the number of students by the number of pencils per student:

30 x 2 = 60

The class needs 60 pencils in total.

Next, we will determine how many packs are needed to provide 60 pencils. We can do this by dividing the number of pencils by the number of pencils per pack:

60 ÷ 12 = 5

The class needs 5 packs of pencils.

Tip : When solving word problems involving multiplication and division, it helps to identify the keywords that indicate what operation to use. For example, words like "each," "per," "every," or "times" indicate multiplication, while words like "how many,” "groups," "quotient," or "divide" indicate division.

10. Fractions and Decimals Word Problem

A pizza is cut into 8 equal slices. John eats 3 slices, Mary eats 2 slices, and Tom eats 1 slice. What fraction of the pizza is left? What decimal number is equivalent to this fraction?

Solution : To solve this problem, we will use fractions and decimals. First, we will find out how many slices of pizza are left. We can do this by subtracting the number of slices that were eaten from the total number of slices:

8 - (3 + 2 + 1) = 8 - 6 = 2

There are 2 slices of pizza left.

Next, we will find out what fraction of the pizza is left. We can do this by writing the number of slices left as the numerator and the total number of slices as the denominator:

This fraction represents the part of the pizza that is left.

Finally, we will determine what decimal number is equivalent to this fraction. We can do this by dividing the numerator by the denominator:

2 ÷ 8 = 0.25

This decimal number represents the same part of the pizza that is left.

Tip : When solving word problems involving fractions and decimals, it helps to remember that fractions and decimals are different ways of representing parts of a whole.

To convert a fraction to a decimal, you can divide the numerator by the denominator.

To convert a decimal to a fraction, write the decimal as a numerator over a denominator of a power of ten (such as 10, 100, or 1000) and simplify if possible.

How to use 5 th Grade math problems worksheets with answers to prepare for tests and assessments

5 th Grade math problems worksheets are great tools to help students prepare for tests and assessments . They can help students review their learned topics, practice their skills and strategies, and identify their strengths and weaknesses. Here are some tips on how to use math problems worksheets effectively:

  • Choose the worksheets matching your student's grade level and the topics they will study . You can find many free and paid resources online.
  • Set a goal for each worksheet , such as how many problems you want kids to solve, how much time you want them to spend, or what score you want them to achieve.
  • Read the instructions carefully and ask your learners to follow them . They can ask you for help if they are unsure what to do.
  • Tell your 5 th graders to show their work and explain their reasoning for each problem . This will help students to check their answers and understand their mistakes.
  • Use a calculator only when allowed or necessary . Encourage your 5 th Grade students to do mental math or use paper and pencil whenever possible.
  • Check your learner's answers with the answer key or a reliable source . If your students got a problem wrong, try to figure out why and how to fix it.
  • Keep track of learner progress and results . You can use a notebook, a spreadsheet, or an online tool to record the worksheets your learners have completed, the problems they have solved, the time they have spent, and the scores they have obtained.
  • Review students' work and feedback regularly . Look for patterns in students' errors, such as common mistakes, misconceptions, or gaps. Focus on improving the areas that they need to work on.
  • Celebrate their achievements and reward them . Recognize learners’ efforts and accomplishments, and treat them with something they enjoy, such as a snack, a game, or a break.

Where to find more 5th Grade math problems worksheets

If you are looking for more 5 th Grade math problems worksheets , you are in luck! Many websites offer students, teachers, and parents free and paid resources. Here are some of the best ones that we recommend:

  • [Math Worksheets 4 Kids]( https://www.mathworksheets4kids.com/ .) - This website has thousands of free printable math worksheets for various topics and grade levels. You can also customize the worksheets according to your preferences and needs.
  • [Math-Drills]( https://www.math-drills.com/ .) - This website has over 50,000 free math worksheets covering basic skills, operations, and math concepts. You can also download the worksheets as PDF files or print them directly from the website.
  • [K5 Learning]( https://www.k5learning.com/ .) - This website offers free math worksheets, online lessons, quizzes, and kindergarten to grade 5 games. You can also sign up for a free trial or a paid subscription to access more features and resources.
  • [Math-Aids]( https://www.math-aids.com/ .) - This website provides free math worksheets that are dynamically generated, meaning that you can create different versions of the same worksheet with different numbers and problems. You can also choose the worksheets' difficulty level, format, and layout.
  • [Education. Com]( https://www.education.com/worksheets/math/ .) - This website has an extensive collection of free and premium math worksheets for preschool to grade 5. You can also find other educational resources such as games, activities, lesson plans, and articles.

Thank you for sharing the links of MathSkills4Kids.com with your loved ones. Your choice is greatly appreciated.

Conclusion: Practice Makes Perfect

Math problems worksheets are excellent ways to practice and improve 5 th graders' math skills and problem-solving abilities. They can help kids review what they have learned, reinforce their knowledge, and challenge what they can do.

These worksheets can also prepare students for tests and assessments and boost their confidence and interest in math.

The key is to use them regularly and effectively. Choose the worksheets that suit your student's level and goals, follow the instructions and tips, Encourage them to show their work and check their answers, keep track of their progress and results, review their work and feedback, and celebrate their achievements.

Remember: practice makes perfect ! The more your students practice, the better they will become. So grab some math problems worksheets today and start solving them with your 5 th graders! They'll be amazed by how much fun and rewarding math can be!

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Free Math Worksheets — Over 100k free practice problems on Khan Academy

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5th Grade Math Resources

You’ve made it – or almost made it – to the top of the elementary school mountain! As a 5th grader, you’ve come a long way in your math journey. Now’s the time where you put your math skills to the test and develop a few new tricks to get you ready for your next adventure: middle school. 

DoodleMath has the 5th grade math concepts, games , guides, and practice problems you need so you can take that next step in stride!

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hard math problems to solve for 5th graders

In 5th grade, students move beyond basic mathematic concepts and into a more complex understanding of math and its real-world applications. Sometimes, this transition can be a little tough, but DoodleMath is here to help. Select a math skill you wish to practice and master those big kid questions in no time.

Practice multiplying and dividing decimals. 

Find out more

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Learn how to find an object’s volume. 

Long division

Multiples and factors.

Learn how to find an object’s volume.

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Whether you have a fifth-grader for the first time or it’s your third time around the block, our goal is to take the guesswork out of elementary math . Browse our 5th grade math guides designed to make learning math a breeze.

5th-grade math help

For parents with a fifth-grader who is struggling with math, read about 7 ways a fifth-grade teacher recommends offering math help.

Common Core Standards

Deep dive into Common Core 5th grade math standards so you feel confident about what your student should know by the start of first grade.

5th-grade math problems

Practice fifth-grade math at home with these 35 math problems that cover fractions & more. Check your work with the provided answer sheet!

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All about 5th grade math

Once they reach 5th grade, students have mastered basic skills like addition , subtraction , multiplication , and division . Now, they’re building on those concepts. In 5th grade, they’ll be expected to multiply and divide decimals and fractions, use data to plot line graphs, and measure volume .

These can be challenging skills to learn, and it’s not uncommon for students to struggle. But, these are fundamental building blocks your child will need as they move into middle school. We’ve pulled popular 5th grade math standards from across the country to give you an idea of what your student will learn. 

Some of the skills 5th graders will be expected to master include:

Operations and numerical expressions

  • Using brackets and braces when solving problems. Students will understand what a bracket or brace in an equation means and how to solve these types of problems. 
  • Understanding the place value system. Your child will be able to recognize what each number in a multi-digit number represents. For example, they will know that 4,250 means there are four 1,000s, two 100s, five 10s, and zero 1s. 
  • Using their understanding of place value to round decimals . By the end of 5th grade, students will be able to use decimal points to round to the nearest 10th. 
  • Performing operations with multi-digit whole numbers and decimals to the hundreds. They will be able to multiply, divide, add, and subtract multi-digit whole numbers (up to four digits) and how to divide and multiply decimals to the hundredths. 
  • Using equivalent fractions to add and subtract fractions . Kids will make fractions with different denominators equal so they can successfully add and subtract fractions. 
  • Multiplying and dividing fractions . Yes, it’s time to learn how to divide and multiply fractions , which may feel complicated at first, but it gets easier with practice, practice, practice. 

Measurement and data

  • Converting units of measurement . Students will learn how to take 5cm and convert it to meters (0.05 m, for the record!).
  • Making a line plot to display data. This data will include fractions. Essentially, students will learn how to graphically represent data using a line graph.
  • Recognizing and measuring volume. Important not only for math but for science class as well, students will learn what volume is and how to calculate and measure it.
  • Graphing points on the coordinate plane to solve real-world and mathematical problems. Students will learn what the coordinate plane is and how to graph data on the X and Y axes.
  • Categorizing shapes . Students will be able to categorize shapes as parallelograms, quadrilaterals , and more. 
  • Arranging shapes in a hierarchy. Students will learn how to sort different shapes into a hierarchy. So, for example, if you’re looking at a square, you would first identify it as a polygon, then a quadrilateral, then a parallelogram, then a rectangle, and finally, since all sides are equal, a square.  

Of course, there’s more to 5th grade math than the concepts we’ve listed above. Visit your state’s Board of Education website to get the complete list of standards for 5th grade math curriculum.

Frequently asked questions about 5th grade math

hard math problems to solve for 5th graders

The 5th grade math curriculum varies from state to state, but overall, students in 5th grade will learn how to add, subtract, multiply and divide whole numbers, fractions, and decimals. They will also begin to learn about plotting data points on a coordinate plane and how to solve equations with brackets and braces. 

No, most 5th graders are not expected to learn algebra. However, they will learn basic concepts like multiplication, division, and probability, along with formulas for area and volume, which will help set the foundations for algebra later in their academic careers. 

There are a number of ways you can help your fifth grader with math . The first is to help them practice mathematical concepts. If they ask you a question, try to sit down with them and work through the math problem. Helping them visualize equations, especially when it comes to remainders, decimals, and more, can really help them grasp concepts they’re learning in the classroom. This may make them more confident. 

There are a few tell-tale signs that may show up even before you get that bad grade on a report card. The biggest is a student hating the subject they’re studying, or missing every problem but not being able to understand why. 

The good news is, there are plenty of math tutoring services, like Kumon and Sylvan, that are available to help. Additionally, many high school students who are taking higher level mathematics, such as precalculus or calculus, usually love tutoring kids in math to keep their own skills sharp, especially over the summer!

hard math problems to solve for 5th graders

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hard math problems to solve for 5th graders

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5th Grade Math Word Problems Real-Life Problems

Welcome to our 5th Grade Math Word Problems page. Here you will find our range of Fifth Grade Math Problem Worksheets which will help your child apply and practice their Math skills to solve a range of 'real life' problems.

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5th Grade Math Word Problems

Here you will find a range of problem solving worksheets.

The sheets involve using a range of math skills and knowledge to solve problems.

Each problem sheet is available in both standard and metric units (where appropriate), and come complete with an answer sheet.

The sheets in this section have all come from 'real life' data such as mountains, rivers or space. Children will be able to apply their math to solve and answer 'real' problems.

Using these sheets will help your child to:

  • apply their addition, subtraction, multiplication and division skills;
  • apply their knowledge of rounding and place value;
  • solve a range of 'real life' problems.

5th Grade Word Problems

The 7 longest rivers.

The 7 longest rivers involves adding and subtracting numbers in the thousands, and also place value and ordering numbers to 10,000.

  • 7 Longest Rivers metric units
  • PDF version
  • 7 Longest Rivers standard units

On the Mountains

On the mountains involves addition and subtraction of numbers to 5 digits, and also rounding and ordering numbers to 10,000 (metric) or 100,000 (standard).

  • On the Mountains metric units
  • On the Mountains standard units

Temperatures around the world

This problem worksheet involves ordering positive and negative numbers, as well as working out differences between positive and negative numbers. The mean and median temperatures also need to be calculated.

  • Temperatures Around the World 3 (Celsius)
  • Temperatures Around the World 3 (Fahrenheit)

The Solar System

The Solar System worksheets involves doubling numbers and rounding to the nearest 1000. Addition and subtraction of large numbers to 5 digits, ordering large numbers and approximation are also tackled.

  • The Solar System (Metric units)
  • The Solar System (Standard units)

US National Parks

This 5th grade math word problem sheet involves addition and subtraction of large numbers to 5 digits, place value and ordering. Approximation and multiplication are also used.

  • US National Parks (metric units)
  • US National Parks (standard units)

Salamanders of the Caribbean Problems

This problem sheet involves rounding and ordering BIG numbers up to 12 million to the nearest 1000, as well as addition and subtraction of the numbers.

  • Salamanders of the Caribbean problems

Nearest Stars

This problem sheet involves rounding decimals to the nearest whole number, as well as ordering decimals to 2 decimal places. Adding and subtracting decimals, and doubling decimals are also used.

  • Nearest stars

Whales Problems

This worksheet involves ordering decimals to 1 or 2dp, as well as ordering large numbers. Addition and subtraction of large numbers and decimals is also used, as well as approximation and multiplication.

  • Whale problems metric units
  • Whale problems standard units

More Recommended Math Worksheets

Take a look at some more of our worksheets similar to these.

Ratio Problems

Here you will find a selection of ratio problem sheets which will help your child practice and apply their ratio knowledge and skills to solve a range of problems.

Looking for some easier word problems?

If you are looking for some easier math problems, why not try our 4th grade math problem page.

The problems on this page are at an easier level than those here.

The numbers are simpler and the problems themselves are less complex.

  • 4th Grade Math Word Problems

More 5th Grade Math Problems

Here you will some more of our 5th grade math word problems.

Each sheet is availabel in both standard and metric units (where applicable).

Each sheet comes complete with a separate answer sheet.

All the problems are based around 'real life' such as the planets, heights of mountains, or length of rivers.

Using these sheet will help your child to:

  • solve a range of problems including "real life" problems and ratio problems.

All the worksheets help to support Elementary math benchmarks.

These sheets involve solving one or two more challenging longer problems.

  • 5th Grade Math Problems

These sheets involve solving a range of ratio problems.

  • Multiplication Word Problems 5th Grade
  • 5th Grade Measurement Worksheets

Here is our selection of measurement worksheets for 5th graders.

These sheets involve reading scales in both the standard and metric systems.

The scales include finding the length, weight or liquid capacity.

Using these sheets will help your child understand how to:

  • learn how to read a standard scale going up in different fractions: halves, quarters, eighths and sixteenths;
  • learn how to read a metric scale going up in 0.1s, 5s, 10s, 25s, 50s & 100s;
  • learn how to estimate a measurement of length, weight or liquid.

Using these sheets will help children to consolidate their fractions and place value learning.

Fifth Grade Math Games

Here you will find a range of free printable 5th Grade Math games.

All children like to play Math games, and you will find a good range of Grade 5 Math Games here for your child to play and enjoy.

The following games involve different 5th Grade Math activities which you and your child can enjoy together.

  • Math Games 5th Grade

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5th Grade Word Problems Learning Resources

Strengthen your child's word problems skills with interactive educational resources for word problems for 5th graders online. These learning resources include fun games and worksheets with eye-catching visuals and characters. Get started to help your 5th grader master this concept by engaging their critical thinking.

hard math problems to solve for 5th graders

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Addition and Subtraction Word Problems

Solve Scenarios with 'Difference Unknown' Game

Solve Scenarios with 'Difference Unknown' Game

Shine bright in the math world by learning how to solve scenarios with 'Difference Unknown'.

Solve Subtraction Word Problems Game

Solve Subtraction Word Problems Game

Enjoy the marvel of mathematics by exploring how to solve subtraction word problems.

Word Problems on Subtracting Decimals Worksheet

Word Problems on Subtracting Decimals Worksheet

Solidify your math skills by practicing word problems on subtracting decimals.

Subtract Decimal Numbers with 1 Decimal Place: Summer Word Problems - Worksheet

Subtract Decimal Numbers with 1 Decimal Place: Summer Word Problems

Summer-themed worksheet focused on solving word problems involving subtraction of 1-decimal place numbers.

Multiplication and Division Word Problems

Solve the Word Problems Related to Multiplication Game

Solve the Word Problems Related to Multiplication Game

Unearth the wisdom of mathematics by learning to solve word problems related to multiplication.

Solve Word Problems Related to Multiplicative Comparison Game

Solve Word Problems Related to Multiplicative Comparison Game

Use your math skills to solve word problems related to multiplicative comparison.

Word Problems on Multiplication Worksheet

Word Problems on Multiplication Worksheet

Be on your way to become a mathematician by practicing word problems on multiplication.

Multiplication Word Problems Worksheet

Multiplication Word Problems Worksheet

Reveal the secrets of math wizardry by practicing multiplication word problems.

Fraction Word Problems

Solve the Word Problems on Fraction Addition Game

Solve the Word Problems on Fraction Addition Game

Have your own math-themed party by learning how to solve the word problems on fraction addition.

Solve the Word Problems on Fraction Subtraction Game

Solve the Word Problems on Fraction Subtraction Game

Add more arrows to your child’s math quiver by solving word problems on fraction subtraction.

Word Problems on Adding Fractions & Mixed Numbers Worksheet

Word Problems on Adding Fractions & Mixed Numbers Worksheet

Become a mathematician by practicing word problems on adding fractions & mixed numbers.

Adding Fractions & Mixed Numbers Word Problems Worksheet

Adding Fractions & Mixed Numbers Word Problems Worksheet

Help your child solve word problems on adding fractions & mixed numbers.

All Word Problems Resources

Solve Word Problems with Add to Scenarios Game

Solve Word Problems with Add to Scenarios Game

Shine bright in the math world by learning how to solve word problems with "Add to" scenarios.

Compare the Given Word Problems Worksheet

Compare the Given Word Problems Worksheet

Print this worksheet to compare the given word problems like a math legend!

Identify the Correct Operation Worksheet

Identify the Correct Operation Worksheet

This downloadable worksheet is designed to help you identify the correct operation.

Solve Word Problems with Put Together Scenarios Game

Solve Word Problems with Put Together Scenarios Game

Ask your little one to solve word problems with "Put Together" scenarios.

Word Problems on Adding Decimals Worksheet

Word Problems on Adding Decimals Worksheet

Help your child revise math skills by solving word problems on adding decimals.

Decimal Word Problems on Multiplication & Division Worksheet

Decimal Word Problems on Multiplication & Division Worksheet

Use this printable worksheet to solve decimal word problems on multiplication & division.

Solve Word Problems Related to Division Game

Solve Word Problems Related to Division Game

Add more arrows to your child’s math quiver by solving word problems related to division.

Add or Subtract Decimal Numbers with 1 Decimal Place: Summer Word Problems - Worksheet

Add or Subtract Decimal Numbers with 1 Decimal Place: Summer Word Problems

Summer-themed worksheet for students to practice adding and subtracting decimals with 1 decimal place.

Word Problems on Decimal Multiplication & Division Worksheet

Word Problems on Decimal Multiplication & Division Worksheet

Focus on core math skills by solving word problems on decimal multiplication & division.

Solve Word Problems on Fraction-Whole Number Multiplication Game

Solve Word Problems on Fraction-Whole Number Multiplication Game

Apply your knowledge to solve word problems on fraction-whole number multiplication.

Addition Problems Involving Mixed Numbers Worksheet

Addition Problems Involving Mixed Numbers Worksheet

Solidify your math skills by practicing addition problems involving mixed numbers.

Add or Subtract Decimal Numbers with 2 Decimal Place: Summer Word Problems - Worksheet

Add or Subtract Decimal Numbers with 2 Decimal Place: Summer Word Problems

Summertime-themed worksheet for solving addition and subtraction problems with 2 decimal places.

Real Life Problems on Adding Mixed Numbers Worksheet

Real Life Problems on Adding Mixed Numbers Worksheet

Boost your ability to solve real life problems on adding mixed numbers with this fun worksheet.

Add or Subtract Decimal Numbers with upto 2 Decimal Place: Summer Word Problems - Worksheet

Add or Subtract Decimal Numbers with upto 2 Decimal Place: Summer Word Problems

Summer-themed worksheet to boost skills in adding and subtracting decimal numbers up to 2 decimal place.

Story Problems on Subtracting Fractions Worksheet

Story Problems on Subtracting Fractions Worksheet

Focus on core math skills with this worksheet by solving story problems on subtracting fractions.

Add or Subtract Decimal Numbers with 1 Decimal Place: Halloween Word Problems - Worksheet

Add or Subtract Decimal Numbers with 1 Decimal Place: Halloween Word Problems

Halloween-themed worksheet for solving addition and subtraction problems with 1 decimal place.

Solve the Multiplication Word Problems Worksheet

Solve the Multiplication Word Problems Worksheet

Boost your ability to solve multiplication word problems by printing this playful worksheet.

Real Life Problems on Subtracting Fractions Worksheet

Real Life Problems on Subtracting Fractions Worksheet

In this worksheet, learners will get to solve real life problems on subtracting fractions.

Add or Subtract Decimal Numbers with 2 Decimal Place: Halloween Word Problems - Worksheet

Add or Subtract Decimal Numbers with 2 Decimal Place: Halloween Word Problems

Spooky-themed worksheet to solve Halloween-inspired decimal addition or subtraction problems.

Apply Multiplication in Everyday Life Worksheet

Apply Multiplication in Everyday Life Worksheet

Print this worksheet to practice applying multiplication in everyday life like a math legend!

Subtraction Problems Involving Mixed Numbers Worksheet

Subtraction Problems Involving Mixed Numbers Worksheet

Reinforce math concepts by practicing subtraction problems involving mixed numbers.

Add or Subtract Decimal Numbers with upto 2 Decimal Place: Halloween Word Problems - Worksheet

Add or Subtract Decimal Numbers with upto 2 Decimal Place: Halloween Word Problems

Halloween-themed worksheet solving word problems using addition or subtraction of decimal numbers up to 2 places.

Multiply 3-digit Numbers and 2-digit Numbers: Summer Word Problems - Worksheet

Multiply 3-digit Numbers and 2-digit Numbers: Summer Word Problems

Summer-themed worksheet for solving word problems involving 3-digit and 2-digit multiplication.

Real Life Problems on Subtracting Mixed Numbers Worksheet

Real Life Problems on Subtracting Mixed Numbers Worksheet

Pack your math practice time with fun by solving real life problems on subtracting mixed numbers.

Add or Subtract Decimal Numbers with 1 Decimal Place: Christmas Word Problems - Worksheet

Add or Subtract Decimal Numbers with 1 Decimal Place: Christmas Word Problems

Christmas-themed worksheet featuring word problems on adding or subtracting decimals with 1 decimal place.

Multiply 3-digit Numbers and 2-digit Numbers: Halloween Word Problems - Worksheet

Multiply 3-digit Numbers and 2-digit Numbers: Halloween Word Problems

Halloween-themed worksheet challenging students to solve multiplication problems with 3-digit and 2-digit numbers.

Fraction Multi-Step Word Problems Worksheet

Fraction Multi-Step Word Problems Worksheet

This downloadable worksheet is designed to practice multi-step word problems on fractions.

Add or Subtract Decimal Numbers with 2 Decimal Place: Christmas Word Problems - Worksheet

Add or Subtract Decimal Numbers with 2 Decimal Place: Christmas Word Problems

Engage in festive math fun with this worksheet on adding or subtracting decimal numbers with a Christmas theme!

Multiply 3-digit Numbers and 2-digit Numbers: Christmas Word Problems - Worksheet

Multiply 3-digit Numbers and 2-digit Numbers: Christmas Word Problems

Enjoy festive math with this worksheet on multiplying 3-digit and 2-digit numbers, Christmas-style!

Multi-Step Word Problems on Fractions Worksheet

Multi-Step Word Problems on Fractions Worksheet

Be on your way to become a mathematician by solving multi-step word problems on fractions.

Add or Subtract Decimal Numbers with upto 2 Decimal Place: Christmas Word Problems - Worksheet

Add or Subtract Decimal Numbers with upto 2 Decimal Place: Christmas Word Problems

Engaging Christmas-themed worksheet for mastering addition and subtraction of numbers up to 2 decimals.

Multiply 3-digit Numbers and 2-digit Numbers: Shopping Word Problems - Worksheet

Multiply 3-digit Numbers and 2-digit Numbers: Shopping Word Problems

Fun shopping-themed worksheet to practice multiplying 3-digit and 2-digit numbers.

Problems on Multiplying Unit Fraction by Whole Worksheet

Problems on Multiplying Unit Fraction by Whole Worksheet

Learners must solve problems on multiplying a unit fraction by a whole to enhance their math skills.

Add or Subtract Decimal Numbers with 1 Decimal Place: Shopping Word Problems - Worksheet

Add or Subtract Decimal Numbers with 1 Decimal Place: Shopping Word Problems

Engaging worksheet for practicing addition and subtraction of 1-decimal place numbers with a shopping theme.

Multiply 3-digit Numbers and 2-digit Numbers: Travel Word Problems - Worksheet

Multiply 3-digit Numbers and 2-digit Numbers: Travel Word Problems

Travel-themed worksheet for students to practice multiplying 3-digit and 2-digit numbers.

Word Problems on Product of Unit Fraction & Whole Worksheet

Word Problems on Product of Unit Fraction & Whole Worksheet

Use this worksheet to solve word problems to find the product of a unit fraction & a whole.

Add or Subtract Decimal Numbers with 2 Decimal Place: Shopping Word Problems - Worksheet

Add or Subtract Decimal Numbers with 2 Decimal Place: Shopping Word Problems

Boost decimal addition and subtraction skills with this shopping-themed worksheet!

Multiply 3-digit Numbers and 2-digit Numbers: Cooking Word Problems - Worksheet

Multiply 3-digit Numbers and 2-digit Numbers: Cooking Word Problems

Engage in this cooking-themed worksheet to practice multiplying 3-digit and 2-digit numbers in word problems.

Your one stop solution for all grade learning needs.

turtle diary

  • FIFTH GRADE

Math Problems for 5th graders

Decimals

Math Problems for 5th Graders

What math should a 5th grader know, linear functions, multiplication, order of operations, units of measurement, how do turtle diary’s math problems help 5th graders master these skills, lessons & practice, quizzes for mastery.

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  • Fun Math Activities

7 Activities to Help Your Child Master 5th Grade Math Word Problems

hard math problems to solve for 5th graders

Last Updated on May 31, 2022 by Thinkster

Fun and interactive activities are a great way to reinforce important math concepts. Whether your child is struggling or looking to practice more challenging concepts, try these ideas to help your child succeed and master fifth grade math word problems.

1. Draw Pictures

One reason many students have trouble with 5th grade math word problems is that they are not properly visualizing the problem . They don’t know what to do because they can’t picture what the problem is asking them to do.

You can help by encouraging your child to draw pictures. The picture does not have to be to scale or even fully accurate, but it can give your fifth grader a starting point to figure out the processes required to solve the problem. By visualizing the word problem, you can help your student better grasp what needs to be done.

To make this even more fun as an after-school activity, take it outside! Use your driveway and some sidewalk chalk for a fun way to visualize word problems.

2. Cook Together

To kids, cooking may seem unrelated to math, but it actually involves many math concepts, such as fractions, division, and multiplication.

Cook or bake with your child and create basic math word problems for them to solve.

math cooking

For instance, you can bake a batch of cookies and tell your child, “we are going to double this recipe.” Then, have him double each amount. Some problems may be easy to solve, such as two cups of flour becoming four, but others involving fractions are not as simple.

3. Home Improvement Projects

Many homes have plenty of house projects that need to be tackled. Finding the time, energy, and money to do so might be difficult, but that doesn’t mean your fifth-grader can’t help!

For example, if he wants to repaint his room, direct him to figure out the area of his walls, how much paint will be needed, how much that paint will cost, and how much estimated time the job will require.

He will be applying math skills to a real-world problem, which ultimately helps him with 5th grade word problems. Then, when you do get around to painting his room or any other planned projects, he will be more eager to help!

4. A Trip to the Store

Shopping at a retail or grocery store is a great way to have your child practice math.

Give your fifth grader a shopping list and a budget, then let her do the shopping while you push the cart.

math shopping

Be a little vague about how much of each item you need so that she must determine what she can afford. Allow for some wiggle room so she can buy a treat, but again, ask her to use her estimation skills to decide if she will have enough money for that treat.

If your fifth grader is advanced and eager for a challenge, you can also have her calculate sales tax on the purchase!

5. Party Planning

Kids love parties, and though you obviously can’t let them throw unlimited bashes, you can let them plan as many as they want!

Give your child a budget and challenge him or her to come up with a menu, party favors, and decorations that will keep them within their budget. For example, your fifth-grader may want to order specialty pizzas instead of just going to Pizza Hut —how will that decision affect what other food can be served and how many guests can ultimately be invited?

Your child will use essential math skills while discovering how challenging the task of planning a party can be.

6. Help Develop  Problem-Solving Plans

Another way to help kids think through word problems is to teach them to use a problem-solving plan. This is a four-step plan that can help them conquer word problems.

It involves:

1. Understanding the problem

2. Devising a plan

3. Carrying out the plan

4. Going back to check work

Students must first read and understand the problem, then create and carry out a plan.

The final step, checking their work, is crucial because it is what helps them determine if their answer and plan make sense. The more your child uses this process with 5th grade math word problems,  the better equipped  she will be.

To make this an activity, give your child some fun word problems and work through the four steps together.

7. Use Technology to Help Master Math Word Problems

If your kids are running to the tablet or computer after school, enroll in an engaging, tech-based tutoring program to help with word problems. With the right math learning program, your children can be motivated, engaged, and even entertained while learning and developing crucial math skills.

When shopping for a program, look for one that is personalized to your child’s level of learning. This ensures that your child gets the exact practice needed for fifth grade math word problems. Thinkster Math is a program created by teachers that personalizes instruction for each child .

Plus, it’s a fun and exciting way to reinforce math skills after school!

What activities have you tried with your fifth grader to help them with math word problems?

4 After School Activities to Master 5th Grade Math Word Problems

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How to Help Your Child Tackle 5th-Grade Math Word Problems

Created: January 9, 2024

Last updated: January 15, 2024

If math is similar to a skyscraper, then word problems are the elevators; the higher you go, the broader your exposure and understanding of its concepts.

On the 5th floor of this building, the children are expected to understand how to interpret and solve word problems, think logically and creatively, as well as apply several math concepts simultaneously. 

Utilizing math word problems 5th grade in your daily learning routine is a great way to help young learners build confidence, and hone their critical thinking and reading skills. It also helps tutors gauge their students’ actual understanding of math concepts and provide instruction and support where necessary.

5th-grade math word problems are a bit more complex than early-grade math problems because it combines math concepts learnt at the elementary level. They might be complex, but not impossible to tackle with the right tutor, routine, and mindset.

The Right Tutor

Getting the right tutor to help your child excel at 5th-grade math common core word problems can be daunting, but not if you know how and where to look.

The internet is the ideal place to start when looking for competent tutors for your child. Various websites offer math lessons online, but Brighterly happens to be one of the best.

Brighterly is a math learning website that infuses gameplay into the learning process to teach math concepts to your child effectively. It offers live one-on-one classes with professional tutors that teach 5th-grade math word problems online. 

You can rest assured that your child is in good hands as Brighterly tutors use innovative teaching techniques and worksheets tailored to your child’s needs.

Homeschoolers aren’t left behind as this platform also allows you to download 5th-grade math word problems pdf worksheets to practice with your child at your leisure!

The Right Mindset

One of the essential ingredients to tackling word problems is patience. Word problems may seem overwhelming at first glance as you may not have all the information you need, but with gradual steps and logical thinking, you will uncover the solution. 

A positive outlook is the best mindset to have when dealing with word problems. We have all battled math anxiety at least once in our lives, so it is crucial to avoid passing this fear on to your child. The best way to foster positive thinking in your child is to motivate them. Using phrases like “You did great”. “We can solve this” helps build confidence in their ability to solve the problem.

The Right Routine

Children are creatures of habit and like adults, benefit from routines they are familiar with. According to Vince Lombardi, a famous American football coach, Only perfect practice makes perfect . Having a fixed daily routine for practising 5th-grade common core math word problems boosts their efficiency and confidence in problem-solving.

To make the practice perfect, it is crucial to arrange and design your child’s routine when your kids are well-rested and alert to aid knowledge assimilation.

Examples of Popular 5th-grade common core math word problems

Common core math word problems 5th grade are multi-layered and require children to think outside the box to arrive at the answer. It is advisable for children to express their ideas and thoughts with pictures to map out their plans and solve each problem.

Word problems in 5th grade typically cover common core math concepts like addition, subtraction, division, multiplication, time, money, place value, and fractions.

Here are a few word problems you can practice with your youngster at home or during lessons.

Mixed Four Operations

These problems involve the basic four operations of addition, subtraction, multiplication and division. The aim of this set of problems is to improve the mastery of the child’s knowledge of basic math concepts. 

  • On a normal day, there are 300 planes taking off from the airport but the airport is a lot rowdier during Christmas. During the Christmas holidays, about 400 planes take off every day from the airport.
  • The airport opens for 12 hours each day during the Christmas holidays; how many planes take off per hour?
  • On average, each plane takes 200 passengers and 5 tons of cargo. How many passengers depart from the airport every day during the Christmas holidays?
  • Compared to a normal day, how many more passengers depart the airport during the Christmas holidays?
  • There are 60 kittens for sale at a pet shop. 12 are black and 28 are orange. How many kittens are striped?

Estimating and Rounding Word Problems

These problems encourage children to use rounding and estimating to arrive at approximate answers to questions. It utilizes basic operations like addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.

  • There are about 650 houses in the area. The average family size is 5 people. Estimate the number of people living in the area.
  •  In a village, there are 500 families. If there are an average of two children attending elementary school from each family and each school accommodates 100 children. What is the minimum number of elementary schools needed in the region?

Fractions and Decimal Word Problems

These problems are an interesting mix as they involve the addition, subtraction, division and multiplication of fractions, mixed numbers, and decimals. Children would learn 

  • It is harvest season at Patty’s farm. She has two corn fields and the total area of the two fields is 5 ½ acres. The big field yields 3 ⅖ corn while the small field yields 2 ⅓ corn. What is the total yield of corn?
  • Mary took out 5 glasses and poured juice from the pitcher. The capacity of each glass is 5/20 liter. If there is enough juice for 6 glasses, how much juice was there?
  • Judy is baking croissants. She has 15 pounds of dough. If each croissant requires ⅛ pounds of dough, how many croissants can she make?

Volume Word Problems

5th grade math volume word problems focus on measurements of volume and capacity and are typically in customary units such as pints, cups, milliters, liters, etc.

  • Before a party, Emily bought a tray of 12 bottles, each having a capacity of 12 oz. There are 15 guests. If each guest had 1 cup of water, would there be enough water for all the guests?
  • Amy made a pot of chili sauce for Thanksgiving dinner. She used 6 cups of water to make the soup. She poured the soup into 10 small soup bowls. How much water (in oz) is used for each small soup bowl?
  • Jodie mixed 2 cartons of orange juice,5 cans of cocktail fruits and 4 bottles of soda water to make a fruit punch for his housewarming party. The can of cocktail fruits are 2 pints each. Each carton of orange juice is 1 gallon  and 2 quartz. Each soda bottle is 5 pints each. How much (in gallons) fruit punch did Jodie make?

Probability word problems

5th grade math probability word problems provide children with the understanding of probability. The students are expected to calculate simple probability by expressing them as fractions or decimals. Probability is usually expressed as likely, unlikely, and certain.

  • A glass jar contains a total of 20 marbles. The jar has red marbles and blue marbles. There are 16 red marbles in the jar. What is the probability of picking a blue marble?
  • A number cube has 6 sides. The sides are numbered 1 to 6. If the cube is thrown once, what is the probability of getting the number 6?

If you want to increase your child’s ability to solve 5th grade word problems quickly, enrolling them at Brighterly is the right call to make. Register now to kickstart their math learning journey. 

We hope these tips help. Good luck!

Jessica is a a seasoned math tutor with over a decade of experience in the field. With a BSc and Master’s degree in Mathematics, she enjoys nurturing math geniuses, regardless of their age, grade, and skills. Apart from tutoring, Jessica blogs at Brighterly. She also has experience in child psychology, homeschooling and curriculum consultation for schools and EdTech websites.

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5 Grade School Math Problems That Are So Hard, You'll Wonder How You Ever Made it To High School

How can they be so easy and so not at the same time?!

this image is not available

A math problem can often look super simple... before you sit down to actually do it and find you have no clue how to solve it. Then there are the problems that make you feel like a math whiz when you solve it in 2 seconds flat — only to find your answer is WAAAAY off. That's why math problems go viral all the time, because they're simultaneously easy and yet so not.

Here are five problems that prove the point:

1. What's the Question Mark?

Let's start off super simple. Can you solve what number the question mark is supposed to be?

this image is not available

The Answer: 6.

Explanation: All of the rows and columns should add up to 15.

2. The Bat & The Ball

A bat and a ball cost one dollar and ten cents in total. The bat costs a dollar more than the ball. How much does the ball cost?

Was your answer 10 cents? That would be wrong !

The Answer: The ball costs 5 cents.

Explanation: When you read the math problem, you probably saw that the bat and the ball cost a dollar and ten cents in total and when you processed the new information that the bat is a dollar more than the ball, your brain jumped to the conclusion that the ball was ten cents without actually doing the math. But the mistake there is that when you actually do the math, the difference between $1 and 10 cents is 90 cents, not $1. If you take a moment to actually do the math, the only way for the bat to be a dollar more than the ball AND the total cost to equal $1.10 is for the baseball bat to cost $1.05 and the ball to cost 5 cents.

3. To Switch or Not to Switch

Imagine you're on a game show, and you're given the choice of three doors: Behind one door is a million dollars, and behind the other two, nothing. You pick door #1, and the host, who knows what's behind the doors, opens another door, say #3, and it has nothing behind it. He then says to you, "Do you want to stick with your choice or switch?"

So, is it to your best advantage to stick with your original choice or switch your choice?

Most people think the choice doesn't matter because you have a 50/50 chance of getting the prize whether you switch or not since there are two doors left, but that's actually not true!

The Answer: You should always switch your choice!

The Explanation: When you first picked one of the three doors, you had a 1 in 3 chance of picking the door with the prize behind it, which means you had a 2 in 3 chance of picking an empty door. What people get wrong here is thinking that because there are only two doors left in play, you have a 50% chance your first choice was correct. In actuality, your chances never changed.

There's still a 1 in 3 chance you picked the right door and a 2 in 3 chance you picked an empty door, which means that when the host opened one of the empty doors, he eliminated one of the WRONG choices and the chances that the prize is behind the last closed door is still 2 in 3 — double what the chances you picked the right door at first are. So, basically, by switching your door choice, you're betting on the 2 in 3 chance you picked the wrong door at first.

Sure, you aren't guaranteed to win if you switch, but if you play the game over and over, you'll win 2/3rds of the time using this method!

Still confused? Let the genius UC Berkeley math professor Lisa Goldberg explain it even better with a bunch of diagrams!

4. The PEMDAS Problem

When you do this seemingly simple problem, what is the answer you get?

The masses are split on the answer to this stumper. Some people are POSITIVE the answer is 1 and some people are absolutely sure the answer is 9.

The Answer: The winner is — 9!

Explanation: The handy order of operations rule you learned in grade school, PEMDAS, says you should solve a problem by working through the Parentheses, then the Exponents, the Multiplication and Division, followed by Addition and Subtraction. But the thing about PEMDAS is, some people interpret it different ways and in there lies the controversy behind this problem.

Some people think that anything touching a parentheses should be solved FIRST. Which means they simplify the problem as follows: 6÷2(1+2) = 6÷ 2(3) = 6÷6 = 1.

But just because a number is touching a parentheses doesn't mean it should be multiplied before division that's to the left of it. PEMDAS says to solve anything inside parentheses, then exponents, and then all multiplication and division from left to right in the order both operations appear (that's the key). That means that once you solve everything inside the parenthesis and simplify the exponents, you go from left to right no matter what. That means the problem should actually be solved as follows: 6÷2(1+2) = 6÷2*(1+2) = 6÷2*3 = 3*3 = 9.

5. The Lily Pad Problem

In a lake, there is a patch of lily pads. Every day, the patch doubles in size. If it takes 48 days for the patch to cover the entire lake, how long would it take for the patch to cover half of the lake?

The tempting answer here is 24, but you're wrong if that's your final answer!

The Answer: The patch would reach half the size of the lake on day 47.

Explanation: With all the talk of doubling and halves, your brain jumps to the conclusion that to solve the problem of when the lily patch covers half the lake, all you have to do is divide the number of days it took to fill the lake (48) in half. It's understandable but wrong.

The problem says that the patch DOUBLES in size every day, which means that on any day, the lily patch was half the size the day before. So if the patch reaches the entire size of the lake on the 48th day, it means the lily pad was half the size of the lake on day 47.

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Parents are stumped over first grader’s math question - can you solve it?

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Math curriculums have been changing in the school system over the last few years, with many parents claiming that “new” math is too difficult.

A mother named Tiesha Sanders recently took to Facebook to share her first-grader’s homework problem that she had no idea how to solve. “The new Math is NOT IT!” her post’s caption began, next to a photo of the problem and a note that she wrote to the teacher .

“Disclaimer: I am not upset with the teacher, she’s just teaching what she’s supposed to. And #2, don’t come here like we’re the dumb ones, I taught elementary for the last six years, this question ain’t it! Also, this is 1st grade math,” the caption read.

The problem required the student to split the number 27 into tens and ones and then just into ones. Her daughter, Summer, wrote that there were two tens and seven ones, so she had assumed when she was asked for the ones again that it was still seven. After getting the question marked wrong, Sanders left a note for the teacher asking for the right answer to help her child next time.

“Hello!” the note began. “I just wanted to ask how Summer got #3 wrong? Her father and I were going over her mistakes and wanted to be sure we were on the right track.”

Her daughter’s teacher responded to the note, writing: “Hello! This is the new math they have us teaching.”

“It is 27 ones. It wants her to know that having two tens and seven ones is the same as 27 ones. If you have any other questions you can call or text me.”

After posting, many people took to the comments where they agreed with Sanders that the question was confusing.

“If they wanted her to decompose the number and show the ways in which the number can be logically made... why NOT = signs? The arrows make sense to who?” one comment read.

Another commenter agreed, writing: “I wonder why they wouldn’t word it differently? Like maybe what does the tens place + the ones place = that threw me for a loop because it’s really unclear.”

Others called out the flawed structure of the question, saying: “But if they have the box that labels ‘tens’ and ‘ones’ then only ask for the ‘ones’, how in the entire world is this math, mathing?”

Someone agreed, adding: “The question sets them up to fail.”

This isn’t the first time a parent has publicly voiced their confusion over an elementary school homework question. Back in December, one mother in Buckinghamshire, England, had become so confused helping her six-year-old with a worksheet that she posted the question in a private Facebook group . 

“At first I thought I was losing my mind. I was like, ‘What am I missing here?’” So I posted in a group with loads of moms hoping they would have the answer,” Laura Rathbone said in an interview with Today .

Rathbone’s daughter, Lilly-Mo, was asked on the worksheet to pick the odd item out based on the five items she was given. The items listed were: friend, toothbrush, desk, silver, and egg.

“So… my six-year-old daughter who’s in year one got this homework question,” her Facebook post read. “It’s confusing in my opinion, to say the least, especially considering the age it’s aimed at… but I’d love to hear your answers!”

She added: “I think it’s something you’d find in a Puzzler magazine personally but let me know your thoughts.”

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  1. 35 Math Problems for 5th Graders

    Hard math problems for 5th graders FAQs If this math page has 5 sections of math problems for 5th graders with an average of 7 questions in each section, can you guess how many problems there will be in all? That's right, there will be a total of 35 math problems for 5th graders for us to practice.

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  3. 69 Challenging Word Problems for 5th Graders

    69 Challenging Word Problems for 5th Graders October 17, 2023 // by Seda Unlucay We know how hard it can be to come up with thought provoking word problems in the middle of a math lesson, so we've taken the pressure off by creating a grandiose list that's perfect for your 5th graders.

  4. 5th Grade Math Problems

    5th Grade Math Problems Welcome to our 5th Grade Math Problems. Here you will find our range of challenging math problem worksheets which are designed to give children the opportunity to apply their skills and knowledge to solve a range of longer problems.

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  6. Maths Problems with Answers for Grade 5

    Grade 5 maths problems with answers are presented. Also Solutions and explanations are included. A large box contains 18 small boxes and each small box contains 25 chocolate bars. How many chocolate bars are in the large box? one toy car costs $2 and 1 toy train costs $3.

  7. 50 Fifth Grade Math Word Problems of the Day

    By Bob Krech Mar 14, 2023 Opening your daily math lesson with a Fifth Grade Math Word Problem of the Day is an excellent way to set the stage for learning! Incorporate them at the start of your math block to build confidence, critical thinking skills, and a learning community.

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    These worksheets present students with real world word problems that students can solve with grade 5 math concepts. We encourage students to think about the problems carefully by: providing a number of mixed word problem worksheets including irrelevant data so students need to understand the context before applying a solution The four operations

  9. Algebraic thinking

    Quiz Unit test About this unit Math is all about problem solving, and this unit will challenge you to use your algebraic thinking skills in new ways. You'll learn how parentheses can change the whole meaning of an algebraic expression by practice evaluating, translating, and creating your own expressions. Writing expressions Learn

  10. 5th grade

    Unit 1: Decimal place value 0/1300 Mastery points Decimal place value intro Decimals on the number line Decimals in expanded form Decimals in written form Decimals in different forms Comparing decimals Rounding decimals Unit 2: Add decimals 0/1000 Mastery points

  11. 5th Grade math problems worksheets with answers ...

    These exciting 5th Grade math problems worksheets with answers cover topics such as addition and subtraction, multiplication and division, fractions and decimals, geometry and measurement, data and probability, and more.

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    Kindergarten 1st grade 2nd grade 3rd grade 4th grade 5th grade 6th grade 7th grade 8th grade Basic geometry Pre-algebra Algebra basics Algebra 1 High school geometry Algebra 2 Trigonometry Statistics and probability High school statistics AP®︎/College Statistics Precalculus Differential Calculus Integral Calculus AP®︎/College Calculus AB

  13. 5th Grade Math Resources

    All about 5th grade math. Once they reach 5th grade, students have mastered basic skills like addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. Now, they're building on those concepts. In 5th grade, they'll be expected to multiply and divide decimals and fractions, use data to plot line graphs, and measure volume.

  14. 5th Grade Math Word Problems

    | 5th Grade Math Word Problems Real-Life Problems Welcome to our 5th Grade Math Word Problems page. Here you will find our range of Fifth Grade Math Problem Worksheets which will help your child apply and practice their Math skills to solve a range of 'real life' problems. 5th Grade Math Word Problems

  15. Open Middle

    CHALLENGING MATH PROBLEMS WORTH SOLVING DOWNLOAD OUR FAVORITE PROBLEMS FROM EVERY GRADE LEVEL Get Our Favorite Problems Take The Online Workshop WANT GOOGLE SLIDE VERSIONS OF ALL PROBLEMS? HERE'S OUR GROWING COLLECTION Get Google Slide Versions WANT TO SHARE OPEN MIDDLE WITH OTHERS? CHECK OUT THESE FREE WEBINARS TO HELP TEACHERS RETHINK CLASSWORK Elementary Version

  16. 5th Grade Math Word Problems: Free Worksheets with Answers

    The following collection of free 5th grade maths word problems worksheets cover topics including mixed operations, estimation and rounding, fractions, and decimals.

  17. Word Problems

    Explore our interactive 'Word Problems' learning resources for 5th graders. Learn how to solve various word problems using engaging activities. Start for free! ... Use your math skills to solve word problems related to multiplicative comparison. 4 5 4.OA.2. VIEW DETAILS.

  18. Math Problems for 5th graders

    Multiplication. In the 5th grade, students should be able to multiply 3-digit numbers by 3-digit numbers. This requires complex problem solving skills, as well as a mastery of subtraction to complete the problem. Multiplication and division will both be revisited for mastery this year, including long division which uses multiple concepts together.

  19. 7 Activities to Master 5th Grade Math Word Problems

    1. Draw Pictures One reason many students have trouble with 5th grade math word problems is that they are not properly visualizing the problem. They don't know what to do because they can't picture what the problem is asking them to do. You can help by encouraging your child to draw pictures.

  20. IXL

    Spanish. Recommendations. Skill plans. IXL plans. Virginia state standards. Textbooks. Test prep. Awards. Improve your math knowledge with free questions in "Multi-step word problems" and thousands of other math skills.

  21. How to Help Your Child Tackle 5th-Grade Math Word Problems

    5th grade math probability word problems provide children with the understanding of probability. The students are expected to calculate simple probability by expressing them as fractions or decimals. Probability is usually expressed as likely, unlikely, and certain. E.g. A glass jar contains a total of 20 marbles.

  22. 5 Grade School Math Problems That Are So Hard, You'll ...

    5 Grade School Math Problems That Are So Hard, You'll Wonder How You Ever Made it To High School How can they be so easy and so not at the same time?! By Noelle Devoe Published: Jun 24,...

  23. 20 Tricky But Fun Grade-School Math Questions

    Answer: 1. Start by solving the division part of the equation. In order to do that, in case you forgot, you have to flip the fraction and switch from division to multiplication, thus getting 3 x 3 = 9. Now you have 9 - 9 + 1, and from there you can simply work from left to right and get your final answer: 1. 11.

  24. Parents are stumped over first grader's math question

    Math curriculums have been changing in the school system over the last few years, with many parents claiming that "new" math is too difficult. A mother named Tiesha Sanders recently took to ...

  25. The Booming Business of Cutting Babies' Tongues

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