12 Fifth Grade Math Games for Teaching Fractions, Decimals, and More

Introduction: 

Math can be a challenging subject for fifth graders, especially when it comes to understanding fractions, decimals, and other important concepts. To make learning more enjoyable and engaging, we have put together a list of 12 fun math games that can help fifth-grade students grasp these concepts in a hands-on and interactive way. Whether you’re a teacher looking for classroom activities or a parent wanting to supplement your child’s learning at home, these games are sure to make math more exciting!

1. Fraction Bingo: 

This classic game of bingo is given a fraction twist! Instead of calling out numbers, the caller gives a fraction (e.g., “1/2”). Players then have to find and cover the corresponding fraction on their bingo cards. The first one to fill a whole row, column, or diagonal shouts “Bingo!” and wins the round.

2. Decimal War: 

In this game, players draw two decimal cards and compare them. The player with the higher decimal value wins the round. To make it more challenging, you can add more decimal places or introduce negative decimals.

3. Fraction Pizza: 

Using paper or cardboard, create a fraction pizza with different toppings. Each topping represents a fraction (e.g., pepperoni represents 1/4). Students take turns adding toppings to their pizza, calculating the total fraction of each topping. The player with the highest total wins the game!

4. Decimal Dash: 

Set up a race track on the floor using masking tape. Assign different decimal values to each section of the track. Students roll a dice and move along the track, adding or subtracting decimals as they go. The first student to reach the finish line wins!

5. Fraction Memory: 

Create a set of cards with various fraction representations (e.g., 1/2, 0.5, 50%, half). Shuffle the cards and lay them face down. Players take turns flipping over two cards to find a match. If the fractions match, the player keeps the pair. The player with the most pairs at the end wins!

6. Decimal Puzzles: 

Make puzzles using decimal numbers and their corresponding written forms (e.g., 0.75 and “seventy-five hundredths”). Mix up the puzzle pieces and have students match the decimals with their written forms. This activity helps reinforce the understanding of decimal place value.

7. Fraction Jeopardy: 

Create a Jeopardy-style game board with different categories related to fractions. Assign point values to each question, with higher points for more challenging questions. Students take turns selecting a category and answering the question. The player or team with the most points at the end wins!

8. Decimal Basketball: 

Set up a mini basketball hoop and assign different decimal values to each hoop. Students take turns shooting a paper ball into the hoops and keeping track of their score. To make it more challenging, multiply the score by a certain factor based on the hoop’s decimal value.

9. Fraction Dominoes: 

Using blank dominoes, write different fractions on each half of the domino. Players take turns matching fractions and creating a chain of dominoes. The first player to play all their dominoes wins the game.

10. Decimal Estimation Race: 

Set up a series of stations with different objects labeled with decimal numbers (e.g., 2.3 grams, 4.56 meters). Students estimate the decimal value of each object and record their answers. The student with the most accurate estimates at the end wins!

11. Fraction Art: 

Give students a piece of graph paper and have them create art using fractions. Each square can represent a fraction, and students can use different colors or shading to represent different fractions. This activity allows for creativity while reinforcing fraction concepts.

12. Decimal Scavenger Hunt: 

Hide decimal cards around the classroom or outdoor area. Give students a list of decimals to find and have them search for the corresponding cards. Students can record their findings and compare them at the end. The student who finds the most decimal cards wins!

Conclusion: 

These 12 fifth-grade math games provide an interactive and engaging way for students to learn and practice fractions, decimals, and other important math concepts. Whether playing in the classroom or at home, these games are designed to make math enjoyable while reinforcing key skills. So, gather your students or children and get ready for a math-filled adventure!