Comparing Fractions We love comparing fractions!

A fraction is a number that stands for part of something. The denominator tells how many equal parts are in the whole or set. The numerator tells how many of those parts you’re talking about. What is a fraction? What fraction of pepperoni is on the slice of pizza? 1616 numerator denominator The numerator 1 is the number of pepperoni pieces on the slice of pizza. The denominator 6 is the number of pepperoni on the whole pizza.

How to Compare Fractions Introducing: ◘ like fractions ◘ unlike fractions 3434 Is it hard? 1414

Sometimes you can compare fractions just by looking at them 1212 > 1414 I’ll take 1212

The fractions 1414 and 3434 have the same denominator. Fractions with the same denominators are Fractions with Like Denominators like fractions.

Comparing Fractions with Like Denominators > Susan walks a greater distance That makes sense because 7 of something is more than 5 of something > 5so Comparing fractions with like denominators is a lot like comparing whole numbers EXAMPLE: EXAMPLE: George walks mile to school. Susan walks mile. Who walks the greater distance? When fractions have the same denominator, compare the numerator.

More Comparing Fractions whole When you have whole pieces, you need to look at the whole pieces and the fraction pieces. whole <

Fractions with Unlike Denominators The fractions 1414 and 3838 have unlike denominators and unlike numerators. Fractions that have unlike denominators are unlike fractions.

Comparing Fractions with Unlike Denominators You can compare fractions to see if they are the same or to see which is greater or which is less. Use Models 3838 is greater than Answer > 1212 One halfthree eighths

Wow, this comparing fractions was fun and easy!