Five pages on comparing and ordering fractions. Page 1 shades two fraction strips of the same length for each pair, such as 2/3 and 3/5, and compares them, then reads two area models (one cut in columns, one in rows) and writes and compares the fractions they show. Page 2 lists multiples to find a common denominator, renames one fraction (3/4 = 6/8, and 6/8 > 5/8), then renames both (2/3 = 8/12 and 3/4 = 9/12). Page 3 compares fractions with the same numerator, renames to a common numerator (2/3 = 4/6, and 4/6 < 4/5), compares each fraction with 1/2 first, and compares fractions one part away from 1 (7/8 is 1/8 from 1, 9/10 is 1/10 from 1). Page 4 marks mixed numbers and fractions greater than 1 on number lines and compares them, then compares four pairs and explains each. Page 5 orders three or four numbers from least to greatest (with mixed numbers and one decimal), then solves four story problems that ask who has more and why.
Hand out fraction strips and ask pairs to show 2/3 and 3/5 side by side before page 1: which is longer, and by how much? On page 2, have students say the rule aloud: same denominator, compare the numerators. Page 3 is a good place to collect strategies on the board: common denominators, common numerators, 1/2 and 1. Ask the class which one they would pick for 7/8 and 9/10, and why.
Cut two paper strips the same length, fold one into thirds and one into fifths, and color 2/3 and 3/5. Which is more? At dinner, compare who ate more of a pizza or a pie, and ask your child to explain how they know, not just which is bigger.
This pack supports the following Common Core State Standards for Mathematics:
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A 5-page comparing fractions pack for 4th and 5th grade. Shade fraction strips and read area models to compare fractions whose numerators and denominators both differ, writing >, < or =. List multiples to find a common denominator, rename one or both fractions, and compare; then compare with common numerators, with 1/2, and by how far each fraction is from 1. Mark mixed numbers and fractions greater than 1 on number lines, compare them and explain how you know. Order three or four fractions from least to greatest and solve story problems that ask who has more and why. Every page comes in color and in black and white. Answer keys included.
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