Compare fractions using models

Learning Objectives Use area models (rectangles and circles) to compare two fractions. Use number lines to compare the position and value of two fractions. Compare fractions with the same denominator by modeling the number of parts. Compare fractions with the same numerator by modeling the size of the parts. Explain the comparison of two fractions using the symbols >, <, or =. Justify a fraction comparison by drawing an accurate visual model. Would you rather have 1/3 of a giant chocolate bar or 1/4 of the same bar? 🍫 Let's use models to find out which piece is bigger! In this lesson, you will learn how to use pictures like rectangles, circles, and number lines to compare fractions. This important skill helps you see which fractions are bigger, smaller, or the s...

TermDefinitionExample FractionA number that represents a part of a whole or a part of a group. It has a numerator and a denominator.The fraction 1/4 means we have 1 part out of a whole that is divided into 4 equal parts. NumeratorThe top number in a fraction. It tells you how many equal parts of the whole you have.In the fraction 3/5, the numerator is 3. This means we have 3 parts. DenominatorThe bottom number in a fraction. It tells you how many equal parts the whole is divided into.In the fraction 3/5, the denominator is 5. This means the whole is divided into 5 equal parts. Area ModelA visual way to show fractions using a shape, like a rectangle or circle, that is divided into equal parts.A rectangle split into 8 equal sections with 3 of them shaded is an area model for 3/8. Number Lin...

Comparing with Same Denominators If you are comparing $\frac{a}{c}$ and $\frac{b}{c}$, and $a > b$, then $\frac{a}{c} > \frac{b}{c}$. When the denominators are the same, the pieces are the same size. The fraction with the greater numerator has more pieces, so it is the larger fraction. Comparing with Same Numerators If you are comparing $\frac{a}{b}$ and $\frac{a}{c}$, and $b < c$, then $\frac{a}{b} > \frac{a}{c}$. When the numerators are the same, you have the same number of pieces. The fraction with the smaller denominator has bigger pieces (because the whole is cut into fewer parts), so it is the larger fraction.