Improper fractions, mixed numbers and like fractions · Usually met around P4
Comparing fractions with like numerators or denominators
Same bottom: compare the tops.
How to do it
Method
Same bottom: compare the tops
58 > 38, since 5 > 3
Another way
A number line
63 = 2 < 73 < 93 = 3
In full
Like fractions have parts of the same size, so compare the tops: the bigger top is the bigger fraction, 58 > 38. Against a whole number, compare the top with the bottom: a smaller top means less than 1, the same means exactly 1, a bigger top means more than 1. 73 is between 2 and 3, since 63 = 2 and 93 = 3. Or place them on a number line: further right is bigger. With the same top, a bigger bottom means smaller parts: 35 > 38.
Worked examples
Have a go first, then open each one for the answer and the working.
Example 1
510 is bigger than 210.
True or false?
Show the answer and working
Answer: True
Same bottoms mean same-sized parts: just compare the tops, 5 and 2.
Example 2
313 < □/13 < 513. What is □?
Show the answer and working
Answer: 4
Same bottoms, so the top is between 3 and 5: 4.
Example 3
Which fraction lies between 2 and 3?
- A. 134
- B. 84
- C. 114
- D. 54
Choose the right answer
Show the answer and working
Answer: C. 114
2 = 84 and 3 = 124: the top between 8 and 12 is in 114.
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