Mathematics
Grade 6
15 min
Compare fractions in recipes
Compare fractions in recipes
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1
Introduction & Learning Objectives
Learning Objectives
Identify fractions representing ingredient quantities in recipes.
Compare fractions with common denominators to determine greater or lesser amounts.
Find a common denominator to compare fractions with different denominators.
Use cross-multiplication as a method to compare fractions.
Apply fraction comparison skills to solve real-world problems involving recipe adjustments.
Determine which of two fractional ingredient amounts is larger or smaller.
Ever wondered if 1/2 cup of sugar is more or less than 3/4 cup when baking a delicious cake? 🍰
In this lesson, you'll learn how to compare different fractional amounts, especially those found in delicious recipes. This skill will help you understand ingredient quantities, make informed choices when cooking...
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Key Concepts & Vocabulary
TermDefinitionExample
FractionA number that represents a part of a whole. It is written as a numerator over a denominator.In a recipe, 1/2 cup of flour means one part out of two equal parts of a cup.
NumeratorThe top number in a fraction, indicating how many parts of the whole are being considered.In 3/4 cup of milk, '3' is the numerator, meaning you have 3 parts of the 4 total parts.
DenominatorThe bottom number in a fraction, indicating the total number of equal parts that make up the whole.In 3/4 cup of milk, '4' is the denominator, meaning the cup is divided into 4 equal parts.
Common DenominatorA shared denominator for two or more fractions, which is necessary for adding, subtracting, or comparing fractions with different denominators.To compare 1/2 and 3/4, a com...
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Core Formulas
Comparing Fractions with Common Denominators
If two fractions have the same denominator, the fraction with the larger numerator is the greater fraction. If $a/c$ and $b/c$ are fractions where $c \neq 0$, then if $a > b$, then $a/c > b/c$.
This rule is used when the total number of parts (denominator) is the same for both fractions. You just need to look at how many parts you have (numerator).
Comparing Fractions with Different Denominators (LCM Method)
To compare fractions with different denominators, first find the Least Common Multiple (LCM) of the denominators. Convert each fraction into an equivalent fraction with the LCM as the new denominator. Then, compare the numerators of the equivalent fractions. If $a/b$ and $c/d$ are fractions, find $LCM(b, d)$. Convert $a/b...
5 more steps in this tutorial
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Challenging
A chef is comparing three spice amounts in a marinade recipe: 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, 5/8 teaspoon of salt, and 2/3 teaspoon of garlic powder. Which of the following lists the ingredients in order from least to greatest amount?
A.Salt, Garlic Powder, Black Pepper
B.Garlic Powder, Salt, Black Pepper
C.Black Pepper, Salt, Garlic Powder
D.Black Pepper, Garlic Powder, Salt
Challenging
A recipe for one batch of scones requires 2/3 cup of butter. You want to make half a batch. You have 1/4 cup of butter. Do you have enough butter for half a batch?
A.No, you need 1/3 cup and only have 1/4 cup.
B.Yes, you need 1/3 cup and have 1/4 cup, which is more.
C.Yes, you need 1/6 cup and have 1/4 cup.
D.No, you need 1/4 cup and only have 1/6 cup.
Challenging
Recipe A calls for 7/8 cup of an ingredient. Recipe B calls for 9/10 cup of the same ingredient. Which statement best describes the comparison of these two amounts?
A.Recipe A uses significantly more because its denominator is smaller.
B.Recipe B uses more, as 9/10 is closer to a whole cup than 7/8 is.
C.They are equal because both numerators are one less than their denominators.
D.Recipe A uses more, as 7/8 is closer to a whole cup than 9/10 is.
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