Compare and Order Fractions
By Mrs. Leigh
To compare fractions you
can draw a picture or use
the “X” method.
Use >, <, or =.
Draw a picture
Start with two shapes of
the same size.
Rectangles work the best.
3
4
<
5
6
Model the first
fraction in the
top rectangle.
Model the second
fraction in the
bottom rectangle.
Use >, <, or =.
The “X” method
Cross multiply by multiplying the
denominator of one fraction with the
numerator of the other fraction.
9=
3
5
<
2
3
=10
10 is greater than 9, so 2/3 is the
greater fraction.
“X” method
12 =
3
>
10
Use >, <, or =.
1
4
=10
To order fractions you
can draw a picture or
use the “X” method.
Draw a picture
Order :
least to greatest
3
4
1
2
5
6
Order the fractions from
least to greatest.
1
2
3
5
,
,
4
6
Order the fractions from least to greatest.
3
,
4
3
5
,
7
8
Next,
Next,
The
Begin
find
other
findby
the
the
fraction
cross
fraction
fraction
that
multiplying
that
shows
is being
is being
the
each
pointed
middle
“eaten”
set to
of
fractions.
amount.
twice.
twice.
This is the fraction the
This
is thethe
fraction
the
shows
greatest
shows
the least
amount.
amount.
3 , 3 , 5
4
7
8
<
3 =21
4
5 =20
8
<
7
5 =40
8
12= 3
7
18= 3
4
24= 3
<