Grade 4 Fractions

Comparing Fractions

Steps

Words: > greater than, < less than, = equal, benchmark (a fraction we know, like 1/2).
Same denominator: more parts is greater: 5/8 > 3/8.
Same numerator: bigger denominator, smaller pieces: 1/3 > 1/5.
Benchmark 1/2: 3/8 < 1/2 < 4/6.
Common denominator: 2/3 = 8/12, 3/4 = 9/12, so 2/3 < 3/4. Only compare same-size wholes!
Rhyme: “Same bottom? Bigger top wins! Same top? Smaller pieces, so the bigger bottom loses!”