Compare Fractions with different numerators and denominators 4th Grade

These resources look at comparing fractions when they have different numerators and different denominators using visual fraction models - the number line and rectangle bar. This leads on to comparing fractions using a numerical method by finding a common denominator. 

The worksheets begin with a review of comparing fractions with the same denominator or numerator with the number line or rectangle bar which students would have seen in Grade 3. This is a good introduction to the topic as you only have to really compare one number (either the numerator or denominator).  There is a worksheets with numerical questions, but you may want to use this for the  'Investigation' 

Comparing fractions with 1/2

You have the same visual models as above, but you can decide to use either a range of values of the denominators from 3 or 10 or from 8 to 20.

Investigating patterns 

Here you could decide to investigate alternative ways to compare the fractions above by looking for any patterns in the results obtained that will allow your students to answer questions on comparing fractions without the need for visual models or a numerical method. You are provided with Investigation sheets where pupils can gather all their results from completed worksheets and write their statements about the patterns they see.  

Comparing fractions with different numerators and different denominators

This is the core of the topic. 

There are 3 levels, and at each level there is the choice of using the number line or rectangle bars.

• Level 1: Denominators lie between 3 and 10

• Level 2: Denominators lie between 3 and 20, with one is a multiple of the other. Here, it may be useful to refer back to the work done on Equivalent fractions as a double check on the answers could be done numerically. 

• Level 3: Denominators are between 3 and 20

Transition from visual models to a numerical method

Students get to see that the easiest way to compare two fractions is if they have the same denominators, then there is only the numerators to think about. 

This is explained firstly through using a visual fraction model which is then linked to the idea of creating a common denominator between the two fractions by multiplying the 2 denominators together (all explained in the Guide).

 Numerical Worksheets 

There are 6 sets of worksheet here:

• - Comparing fractions to 1/2

• - Compare Fractions (1) - Denominators from 3 to 12

• - Compare Fractions (2) - One Denominator is a multiple of the other

• - Compare Fractions (3)  - Denominators from 3 to 20 

• - Compare Fractions (4)  - Denominators from 8 to 20

The first 2 cover the early work and could also be used with the Investigation, the others could be used for by students drawing their own number lines or rectangle bars or for the numerical method outlined above.

Click, Print and Go - No-Prep Worksheets

You will have ready a set of straightforward no-prep worksheets that require virtually no instructions. Each worksheet with the number line or rectangle bar has a small example at the top of the page to remind students of what they have to do .... very useful for homework. They are also ideal for an end of lesson activity, and to have ready for a replacement teacher if needed. 

How many worksheets are there in total ?

Virtually unlimited ... At the click of a button all the questions are randomised, so the worksheet is different every time.  This will allow you to create as many new worksheets you will need for practice throughout the year (classwork, homework, revision, fillers, etc.) or even give small groups of students in your class different sets of questions either at the same level or differentiated .

There will certainly be enough to ensure fluency in this topic. 

You could also use any of the worksheets to explain or introduce the subject to your class as you will have almost unlimited examples to work with and they will be different from the actual worksheets you hand out to  your students.  

Answers can be found on the second page of every worksheet, automatically generated when you create a new worksheet.

Note
These resources are PDF documents and work with the official  Adobe Acrobat Reader on Windows or Mac computers with the randomising buttons also working via a touchscreen (PC or Mac)or on an Interactive Whiteboard.

Common Core - CCSS4.NF.A.2

Compare two fractions with different numerators and different denominators, e.g., by creating common denominators or numerators, or by comparing to a benchmark fraction such as 1/2. Recognize that comparisons are valid only when the two fractions refer to the same whole. Record the results of comparisons with symbols >, =, or <, and justify the conclusions, e.g., by using a visual fraction model.

Almost unlimited number of no prep worksheets at multiple levels, plus a set of templates for investigating patterns when comparing fractions, plus a guide