Comparing Fractions
Ages 8–12Difficulty adapts to you
Comparing Fractions
Compare positive fractions using a visual model, equivalent fractions with a common denominator, or cross-products. Cross-products must be compared in the correct order.
Your goals
- ✓You can tell which fraction is bigger or smaller.
- ✓You can use common denominator, equivalent correctly.
- ✓You can use equivalent fractions, a model, or cross-products to confirm.
Words to know
- common denominator:
- A shared denominator used to compare or combine fractions.
- equivalent:
- Equal in value.
Examples
- 12/5 and 3/5 have the same denominator, so 3/5 is greater because 3 > 2.
- 2For 1/2 and 2/3, compare 1 × 3 = 3 with 2 × 2 = 4. Because 4 > 3, 2/3 is greater.
Check these
- • Do not compare denominators alone when the numerators differ.
- • Keep every number, symbol, label, and unit in its correct place.
- • Show enough working to check how you reached your answer.
Helpful habits
- • Read the whole question before choosing what to do.
- • Show one clear step at a time and check each step.
- • If you are stuck, draw a model, try smaller numbers, or revisit the example.
Now try your own
Create your own comparing fractions example, solve it, and explain how you checked it.
Spark
Creativity & Innovation“Challenge yourself: can you explain this to a friend?”