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Comparing fractions | Year 4 Mathematics PDF Download

Why do you compare fractions?

  • When we compare fractions, we are essentially looking at how much of the whole is represented within each fraction. This is crucial when dividing or sharing something like a cake, ensuring that each share is fair and equal.
  • Imagine cutting a cake where everyone should get an equal slice. By visually comparing fractions, we ensure that each portion is proportionate.
    Comparing fractions | Year 4 Mathematics
  • Two main types of fractions for comparison are unit fractions and fractions with the same denominator.

Comparing Unit Fractions

A unit fraction has a numerator of 1, while the denominator can be any other whole number. For example, 1/4.
Comparing fractions | Year 4 MathematicsSince the numerator stays constant with unit fractions, we compare them based on the denominator. The larger the denominator, the smaller the fraction, as it signifies the number of parts the whole has been divided into.Both are unit fractions, so we focus on their denominators to determine which is bigger. Using bar models can assist in visual comparison.

Example

Example: Which is bigger, 1/6 or 1/3?
Since both fractions are unit fractions, you need to look at the denominator to determine which fraction is larger. Bar models can also assist in comparing them.
Comparing fractions | Year 4 Mathematics

You can see that 1/3 is the bigger fraction because it has been split up into fewer parts.
If we used the greater than and less than signs, we would write:
Comparing fractions | Year 4 Mathematics

Comparing fractions with the same denominator

  • It is easy to compare fractions with the same denominator. You only have to focus on the numerator.
  • The fraction is larger if the numerator is a bigger number. That’s because you are talking about more parts of the whole.

Example

Example: Luke and Khadija cut a pizza into 6 slices. Luke ate 2/6 of the pizza and Khadija ate 3/6. Who ate more pizza?
The two fractions you need to look at are 3/6 and 2/6. Which has the bigger numerator?
The larger the numerator, the larger the fraction.
It can also help to draw each fraction to understand which one is larger.
Comparing fractions | Year 4 MathematicsYou can see that 3/6 is larger than 2/6, so Khadija ate more pizza!Using the greater than and less than signs, you would write it as:Comparing fractions | Year 4 Mathematics

The document Comparing fractions | Year 4 Mathematics is a part of the Year 4 Course Year 4 Mathematics.
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FAQs on Comparing fractions - Year 4 Mathematics

1. Why is it important to compare fractions?
Ans. Comparing fractions allows us to determine which fraction is larger or smaller, which is crucial for making decisions in various mathematical and real-life situations. It helps us understand the relationship between different quantities and make comparisons more effectively.
2. How do you compare unit fractions?
Ans. Unit fractions are fractions where the numerator is 1. To compare unit fractions, we can look at the denominators - the fraction with the smaller denominator is larger. For example, 1/5 is smaller than 1/3 because 5 is bigger than 3.
3. How do you compare fractions with the same denominator?
Ans. When comparing fractions with the same denominator, we can simply look at the numerators. The fraction with the larger numerator is greater. For example, when comparing 3/6 and 5/6, 5/6 is larger because 5 is greater than 3.
4. How can comparing fractions help in everyday life?
Ans. Comparing fractions is essential in everyday life for tasks such as cooking, shopping, and budgeting. It helps us make decisions regarding quantities, prices, and proportions, ensuring we get the best value for our money.
5. What strategies can be used to compare fractions effectively?
Ans. Some strategies for comparing fractions include finding a common denominator, converting fractions to decimals, and using visual representations such as fraction bars or number lines. These methods can help simplify the comparison process and make it easier to determine which fraction is larger or smaller.
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