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3rd Grade 3rd Grade Comparing Fractions

Compare two fractions using >, <, or =. Use the rules for same numerator and same denominator.

  • Homework
  • Review
  • Test Prep
  • Centers

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Worksheet details

Grade
3rd Grade
Subject
Math
Skill
Fractions
Topic
comparing fractions with the same numerator or denominator
Difficulty
Standard
Time
15 minutes
Pages
2 (incl. answer key)
Format
Printable PDF (US Letter)
Answer key
Included
Best for
homework, review, test prep, centers

What This Worksheet Practices

Students will compare two fractions with the same numerator or the same denominator using >, <, or =.

  • Comparing fractions with the same denominator
  • Comparing fractions with the same numerator
  • Using >, <, and =

Worksheet Preview

Preview of 3rd Grade Comparing Fractions

Two rules for comparing

Comparing fractions comes down to two cases. Same denominator? The one with more pieces (bigger numerator) is bigger: 3/8 < 5/8. Same numerator? The one with bigger pieces (smaller denominator) is bigger: 1/2 > 1/4. And it only works when the wholes are the same size.

How to use it

Use pizza slices to make it concrete, and watch for the common trap that a bigger denominator means a bigger fraction. Builds on fractions of a shape and fractions on a number line.

👩‍🏫 Teacher note

Two rules: with the same denominator, more pieces (bigger numerator) is bigger; with the same numerator, fewer/larger pieces (smaller denominator) is bigger. Remind students the wholes must be the same size.

🏠 Parent note

Use pizza: 3/8 vs 5/8 — more slices of the same size is bigger. 1/2 vs 1/4 — halves are bigger pieces than fourths.

Common Mistakes to Watch For

  • Thinking a bigger denominator means a bigger fraction
  • Comparing fractions of different-size wholes

Answer Key

The comparison symbol is given for each problem.

⬇ Download Answer Key (PDF)

Frequently Asked Questions

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