84
Comparing fractions
Textbook: Part 3, lesson 84, pp. 40–42
GoalComparing fractions with the same denominator; comparing mixed numbers; putting fractions in increasing order.
New words
compare · taqqoslashgreater · kattasmaller · kichikincreasing order · o‘sish tartibi
Explanation
Of two fractions with the same denominator, the one with the larger numerator is greater. The numerator says how many shares there are, and the shares are the same size. On the number ray the greater fraction is to the right. To compare mixed numbers, compare the whole parts first; if they are equal, compare the fraction parts.
Worked examples
5/9 < 7/9 because 5 < 7. 12/7 > 9/7 because 12 > 9.
2 3/5 < 2 4/5 (equal whole parts, 3/5 < 4/5). 3 1/5 > 2 4/5 (3 > 2).
Class activity
“Line up”: children hold fraction cards and line up with the fractions in increasing order, then in decreasing order.
Practice
1
Compare 5/9 and 7/9 (>, < or =).
5/9 < 7/9
2
Compare 12/7 and 9/7.
12/7 > 9/7
3
Write in increasing order: 3/8, 7/8, 1/8, 5/8.
1/8, 3/8, 5/8, 7/8
4
Compare 3 1/5 and 2 4/5.
3 1/5 > 2 4/5
5
Two identical bottles hold 600 ml of juice each. The first is filled 2/6 full and the second 5/6 full. Which has more juice and by how many millilitres?
the second, by 300 ml