Comparing fractions (age 8+)
Compare two fractions with the same numerator or the same denominator by reasoning about size; record comparisons with >, =, or < symbols
What a learner can do afterwards
- Compare 3/8 and 3/4: same numerator, larger denominator means smaller pieces so 3/8 < 3/4
- Compare 5/6 and 2/6: same denominator so 5/6 > 2/6
- Justify a comparison using a visual model and explain why both fractions must refer to the same whole
The lesson
You know a fraction has a numerator on top and a denominator on the bottom. When two fractions share the same denominator, the pieces are the same size, so you only need to compare the numerators. More sixths means a bigger fraction.
When two fractions share the same numerator, look at the denominator instead. A bigger denominator cuts the same whole into smaller pieces, so the fraction is actually smaller. That is why 3/8 is less than 3/4, even though 8 is the bigger number.
Before you compare, check that both fractions come from wholes the same size. Two 3/4 pizzas are only equal in size if the pizzas themselves start out the same size.
Same denominator, compare the numerators. Same numerator, the smaller denominator wins because its pieces are bigger.
Watch it
Where it sits
Where this leads
Jobs that lean on this skill. Follow one to see everything it is built on.
8 questions wait behind this lesson, each with its answer explained. Every answer feeds the sky: stars light as they are learned, and dim when it is time to come back.