Lesson 6.8: Compare and Order Fractions

Understanding Fractions

Understanding Fractions

Fractions are a special type of numbers that are used to indicate parts of a whole. Fractions are written using two numbers separated by a slash, such as 3/4. This fraction indicates that 3 out of the 4 parts of a whole are being referred to. Fractions can also represent percentages, where the numerator is the percentage and the denominator is 100. For example, 3/4 = 75%.

Ordering Fractions

Ordering Fractions

When ordering fractions, the numerator and denominator must be compared in order to determine which fraction is larger. If the numerators are the same, then the fraction with the larger denominator is smaller. For example, 3/4 is larger than 3/5. If the denominators are the same, then the fraction with the larger numerator is larger. For example, 4/5 is larger than 3/5. If both the numerators and denominators are different, then the fractions must be converted to equivalent fractions with the same denominator so that they can be compared. For example, to compare 4/7 and 3/5, both fractions must be converted to 20/35 and 15/35 respectively. Then, it can be seen that 20/35 is larger than 15/35.

Comparing Fractions

Comparing Fractions

When comparing fractions, the numerator and denominator must be compared in order to determine which fraction is larger. If the numerators are the same, then the fraction with the larger denominator is larger. If the denominators are the same, then the fraction with the larger numerator is larger. If both the numerators and denominators are different, then the fractions must be converted to equivalent fractions with the same denominator so that they can be compared. For example, to compare 4/7 and 3/5, both fractions must be converted to 20/35 and 15/35 respectively. Then, it can be seen that 20/35 is larger than 15/35.

Practice Exercises

Practice Exercises

In order to practice comparing and ordering fractions, students can complete practice exercises. These exercises can involve ordering fractions from least to greatest or comparing fractions to determine which is larger. Many textbooks have practice exercises that students can use to gain familiarity with ordering and comparing fractions. Additionally, there are many online tools and websites that offer practice exercises for free.



Comparing and ordering fractions is an important skill for students to learn in order to understand fractions better. It is important to remember that when comparing fractions, the numerators and denominators must be compared in order to determine which fraction is larger. Additionally, when ordering fractions, the numerators and denominators must be compared in order to determine which fraction is larger. By completing practice exercises, students can gain familiarity with comparing and ordering fractions.