Comparing Fractions (Like Denominators) (926)

Teaching Notes

Since the parts are the same size (denominator), we just compare how many parts we have (numerator).

Vocabulary

Numerator: The top number in a fraction.

Denominator: The bottom number in a fraction.

Common Mistakes

• Thinking smaller denominator means smaller fraction (not applicable here but good to address).
• Comparing denominators instead of numerators
• Ignoring the whole when comparing
• Misinterpreting greater than/less than symbols
• Assuming larger denominator means larger fraction

Differentiation

Discussion Questions

• If I have 1/4 of a pizza and you have 3/4, who has more?
• Why do we only look at the top number?
• What does the denominator tell us?
• What does the numerator tell us?
• Why are like denominators important here?
• How can you tell which fraction is larger?

Extension Activities

• War card game with fractions.
• Ordering on a number line.

Parent Tip

Ask your child which is bigger: 3/8 of a candy bar or 5/8.

Skill Cluster

Number Sense: Fractions

Estimated Time

10 minutes

Skills Practiced

Prerequisites

• 920
• Understanding fraction notation
• Identifying numerators and denominators

Next Steps

• Comparing fractions with unlike denominators
• Ordering fractions
• Comparing Fractions (Unlike Denominators)
• Ordering Fractions
• Equivalent Fractions