Description
Adding and subtracting fractions with unlike denominators is a major 5th grade skill, and most students need more than one round of practice. In this spy-themed escape room, students use fraction clues to eliminate suspects and uncover the mole inside the agency.
Math skills students will practice
- Finding a common or lowest common denominator for two fractions
- Creating equivalent fractions with common denominators
- Adding fractions with unlike denominators
- Subtracting fractions with unlike denominators
- Reducing answers to simplest form
This is a focused review aligned with 5.NF.A.1. Mixed numbers and regrouping are not included, which makes the activity a good choice before students move into more complex fraction operations.
Choose print or digital
The printable version is provided in both color and black and white. It includes the mission explanation, suspect list, clue sheets, evidence pages, and mission-accomplished page. The files are designed to be low prep and straightforward to implement.
The digital version is self-checking and automated through Google Forms, with no clues to hide. One suspect-list page is suggested for printing. Students do not need Google Classroom or email accounts; an internet-connected computer, tablet, or phone is enough. A copyable Google Form option is included for schools that require forms to originate within their own system.
What is included
- Quick-start guide and digital escape-room link
- Optional link for saving a copy of the Google Form
- Printable escape room in color and black and white
- Suspect list, clue sheets, and evidence pages
- Answer key and teacher tips
Many groups complete the mission in about 30–45 minutes. Use it after instruction, for targeted review or intervention, before an assessment, or whenever students need standards-based fraction practice that encourages discussion and careful reasoning.
