Fractions · lesson 9 of 24 · free

Comparing fractions: same top or same bottom — Fractions for kids

Two fractions with the same bottom number are cut into the same size pieces, so more pieces wins: 5/7 > 3/7. With the same top number, the smaller bottom number gives bigger pieces: 3/5 > 3/8.

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The method

Look for what matches — “when one number matches, the other number decides”

  1. Same denominator: the bigger numerator is the bigger fraction.
  2. Same numerator: the smaller denominator is the bigger fraction.
  3. Use > (greater than), < (less than) or = (equal).

Use it for: Comparing marks, shares and lengths, and the greater-than / less-than questions in Class 4–6 maths.

🧮 Check your own sums with the free Fraction calculator — it shows the working.

Worked example: Which is greater: 3/8 or 3/5? → 3/5

  1. Same top number: the smaller bottom number means bigger pieces.
  2. Fifths are bigger than eighths, so 3/5 > 3/8.

Check: 3/5 = 24/40 and 3/8 = 15/40, and 24 > 15 ✓

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✏️ Practice

Work it out in your head or on paper, type the answer and press Check. Stuck? Press “Show me how”.

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🏁 Lesson 9 test

20 questions. Check each answer, then go to the next one. Get 16 or more right to pass.

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🖨️ Comparing Fractions Worksheet

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