This document provides definitions and examples for comparing and ordering fractions. It explains that when fractions have the same denominator, they are like fractions and can be directly compared by looking at the numerators. For unlike fractions with different denominators, a common denominator must be found, such as the least common multiple of the denominators, so the fractions can be converted to equivalent fractions with the same denominator and then compared. Examples are provided of finding a common denominator and comparing fractions.

1. Name ___________________________________ Date _________________
Mrs. Labuski / Mrs. Portsmore Period _________Unit 5 Lesson 3 Comparing&
Ordering Fractions TB 4-6
VOCABULARY DEFINITION EXAMPLE
When fractions 7 3
Like Fractions have the same
10 10
denominator.
When two 2 3
Unlike fractions have
3 4
Fractions different
denominators.
To compare unlike 2 3
fractions you must
3 4
Common rename the
fractions so they ↓ ↓
Denominators
have a common 8< 9
denominator. 12 12
When you are comparing fractions, first check their denominators.
When you have like fractions that have the same denominator you look at the
numerator to see which fraction is larger or smaller.
3 < 7
10 10
When you have unlike fractions have to find a common denominator. 1 and 1
To find the common denominator: 2 3
You can multiply the denominators together to get 2 x 3 = 6
a common denominator. (or find the least common 6 is your common denominator
multiple.)
Find equivalent fractions using the new 1 = 3 1= 2
denominator. 2 6 3 6
Compare the fractions 3>2
6 6

2. Now let’s try some together:
2. 3.
4. 5. 6.
7. 8. 9.

3. Plot the fractions on the number line.

4. Name ___________________________________ Date _________________
Mrs. Labuski / Mrs. Portsmore Period _________Unit 5 Lesson 3 Comparing&
Ordering Fractions TB 4-6
VOCABULARY DEFINITION EXAMPLE
Like Fractions
Common
Denominators
Unlike
Fractions
When you are comparing fractions, first check their denominators.
When you have like fractions that have the same denominator you look at the
numerator to see which fraction is larger or smaller.
3 < 7
10 10
When you have unlike fractions have to find a common denominator. 1 and 1
To find the common denominator: 2 3
You can multiply the denominators together to get 2 x 3 = 6
a common denominator. (or find the least common 6 is your common denominator
multiple.)
Find equivalent fractions using the new 1 = 3 1= 2
denominator. 2 6 3 6
Compare the fractions 3>2
6 6

5. Now let’s try some together:
1. 2. 3.
4. 5. 6.
7. 8. 9.

6. Plot the fractions on the number line.