Worked Example 1
Words to Expression
Add 7 and 3, then multiply by 5.
- 1The addition happens first, so it goes in parentheses: (7 + 3).
- 2Then multiply by 5.
Answer: (7 + 3) × 5
Florida Grade 5 Math · Algebraic Reasoning
MA.5.AR.2.1: Writing and reading expressions
What this Grade 5 benchmark means, worked examples, common mistakes, and a free printable worksheet.
Created by a Florida mom · Published by Tropical Learning LLC
What Is Benchmark MA.5.AR.2.1?
In Grade 5, students translate words into numerical expressions, like "add 7 and 3, then multiply by 5" → (7 + 3) × 5, and translate expressions back into words.
Parentheses show what to do first. Phrases like "the sum of," "the difference of," and "then" are clues for where the parentheses go.
Official benchmarkTranslate written real-world and mathematical descriptions into numerical expressions and numerical expressions into written mathematical descriptions.
On the FAST test: part of the Grade 5 reporting category Algebraic Reasoning, which is about 23–29% of the test.
Worked Examples
Worked Example 2
Expression to Words
4 × (9 − 2)
- 1The parentheses show a difference: 9 − 2.
- 2That difference is multiplied by 4.
Answer: 4 times the difference of 9 and 2
Common Mistakes to Watch For
Leaving out parentheses
Wrong:Add 7 and 3, then multiply by 5 → 7 + 3 × 5
Without parentheses, multiplication happens first. Write (7 + 3) × 5 to add first.
Reversing "subtract from"
Wrong:Subtract 6 from 20 → 6 − 20
"Subtract 6 from 20" starts with 20: 20 − 6.
Helpful Math Tip
Read the words slowly and circle the action that happens first. That part goes in parentheses.
Related Grade 5 Skills
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Start Practicing FreeIndependent Educational Platform. FastChomp is published by Tropical Learning LLC and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by the Florida Department of Education. FAST and Star assessment names are referenced for informational purposes only. FastChomp practice questions are original educational materials, not official Florida FAST assessment questions.