Comparing Fractions with Like Denominators
Twenty-four pairs of fractions that share the same denominator. Students write <, > or = between them. Because the parts are the same size, the fraction with more parts is larger. Two problems on the sheet are equal pairs, so students cannot assume every answer is < or >.
- Grade
- Grade 3
- Problems
- 24
- Time
- About 10 minutes
- Standard
- 3.NF.A.3d
Download
Download PDF (US Letter) Download PDF (A4)Two pages: the worksheet, then the answer key. No sign-up needed.
Compare Write <, > or = in each box.
- 14<24
- 56>16
- 24<34
- 23>13
- 38<48
- 13<23
- 34>14
- 24>14
- 68>48
- 12=12
- 48>28
- 38<58
- 36<46
- 58>38
- 14<34
- 48<58
- 18<38
- 48<68
- 58>28
- 56=56
- 18<58
- 26<46
- 36>26
- 58>48
Tips for teachers and parents
- Ask: are the pieces the same size? If the bottom numbers match, yes, so compare the top numbers.
- For students who need a picture, draw two equal bars, split both into the same number of parts and shade each fraction.
- Remind students that the open side of < and > faces the larger fraction.
- Read each answer aloud as a sentence: "three eighths is less than five eighths".
Common mistakes
- Comparing the denominators instead of the numerators. With like denominators, the bottom numbers are the same and tell you nothing about which is bigger.
- Writing the sign backwards. Have students point to the larger fraction first, then draw the sign opening toward it.
What to practice next
Comparing fractions with the same numerator is the other comparison in the grade 3 standard, and it often surprises students.
Frequently asked questions
What does "like denominators" mean?
Both fractions have the same bottom number, so they are made of the same size parts. Only the number of parts is different.
Are there any equal pairs?
Yes, two of the 24 problems compare a fraction with itself, so the answer is =.
Is there an answer key?
Yes, page 2 has all 24 answers.