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Florida Grade 5 Math · Algebraic Reasoning

MA.5.AR.2.3: True or false equations

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

Download Free Worksheet (PDF)See worked examples

What Is Benchmark MA.5.AR.2.3?

In Grade 5, students decide whether an equation like 6 × 4 = 30 − 6 is true or false and explain why.

The key idea: the equal sign means "is the same value as." An equation is true when both sides have the same value, even if each side has an operation.

Official benchmarkDetermine and explain whether an equation involving any of the four operations is true or false.

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 1

A True Equation

6 × 4 = 30 − 6
  1. 1Left side: 6 × 4 = 24.
  2. 2Right side: 30 − 6 = 24.
  3. 324 = 24, so the equation is true.
Answer: True

Worked Example 2

A False Equation

45 ÷ 5 = 3 × 4
  1. 1Left side: 45 ÷ 5 = 9.
  2. 2Right side: 3 × 4 = 12.
  3. 39 is not equal to 12, so the equation is false.
Answer: False

Common Mistakes to Watch For

Treating = as "the answer comes next"

Wrong:7 × 8 = 56 + 6 = 62

Both sides of an equal sign must be the same value. 7 × 8 = 56, but 56 + 6 = 62, so you can't chain them with =.

Only checking one side

Wrong:36 ÷ 4 = 3 × 4 is true because 36 ÷ 4 = 9

Find the value of both sides: 9 and 12. They are different, so it is false.

Helpful Math Tip

Find the value of each side separately and write it underneath. Then compare the two numbers.

Related Grade 5 Skills

MA.5.AR.2.2

Order of operations

MA.5.AR.2.4

Writing equations with an unknown

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Independent 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.