---
title: "Comparing fractions (age 9+)"
description: "Compare and order fractions with different numerators and denominators by creating common denominators/numerators or comparing to a benchmark such as 1/2; justify conclusions with visual models"
canonical: https://lightmysky.com/learn/mathematics/comparing-fractions-age-9-mt_SXbZ3bC9z7
source: https://lightmysky.com/learn/mathematics/comparing-fractions-age-9-mt_SXbZ3bC9z7.md
retrieved: 2026-10-19
---

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# Comparing fractions (age 9+)

Compare and order fractions with different numerators and denominators by creating common denominators/numerators or comparing to a benchmark such as 1/2; justify conclusions with visual models

Subject: Mathematics · Area: Fractions · Ages 9 to 10
Page: https://lightmysky.com/learn/mathematics/comparing-fractions-age-9-mt_SXbZ3bC9z7

## Ready when they can

- Compare 3/8 and 5/12 by finding a common denominator of 24
- Order 2/3, 3/5, and 7/10 from smallest to largest
- Use the benchmark 1/2 to decide that 5/8 > 3/7

## Lesson: Comparing fractions with different denominators

You already know how to compare fractions that share the same bottom number, or that sit near one-half. Now you'll compare fractions where the top and bottom numbers are both different, like 3/8 and 5/12. The trick is to rewrite both fractions with a common denominator, or check each one against the benchmark 1/2.

**Example.** Compare 3/8 and 5/12. Both 8 and 12 divide evenly into 24, so rewrite each fraction with 24 as the denominator: 3/8 becomes 9/24, and 5/12 becomes 10/24. Since 10/24 is more than 9/24, 5/12 is the bigger fraction.

*(drawing: 5/8 has more than half shaded, since half of 8 is 4. Half of 7 is 3.5, so 3/7 is just under half. That makes 5/8 the bigger fraction, no common denominator needed.)*

*(drawing: The shortest bar is 3/5, then 2/3, then 7/10. That's the order from smallest to largest.)*

**Tip.** If you're not sure, draw a quick picture or check both fractions against one-half. If one fraction is under 1/2 and the other is over 1/2, you already know which is bigger.

**Recap.** To compare fractions with different tops and bottoms, make a common denominator or check each one against one-half.

## Practice

16 questions on this page, each with its working shown.

## Needs first

- [Equivalent fractions (age 9+)](https://lightmysky.com/learn/mathematics/equivalent-fractions-age-9-mt_ebPelt-qAl)
- [Comparing fractions (age 8+)](https://lightmysky.com/learn/mathematics/comparing-fractions-age-8-mt_HnKbuCliNS)

## Opens up

- [Building and critiquing a mathematical argument](https://lightmysky.com/learn/mathematics/building-and-critiquing-a-mathematical-argument-mt_2ESZh70NyS)
- [Comparing fractions (age 10+)](https://lightmysky.com/learn/mathematics/comparing-fractions-age-10-mt_PL9VkDwXfh)