Which Is Greater? Comparing and Ordering Fractions

About This Resource

A complete Grade 4 math pack on comparing fractions with >, < and =: same denominators, same numerators, the benchmark 1/2, common denominators, ordering fractions and real-life comparison problems. Includes a lesson plan, worksheet, quiz, homework, A5 flashcards, a rubric, detailed slides with speaker notes, Word files and answer keys.

Overview

Children learn four strategies to compare fractions. When the denominators are the same, compare the numerators. When the numerators are the same, the fraction with the smaller denominator is greater because its pieces are bigger. Use 1/2 as a benchmark, or rewrite both fractions with a common denominator. Children practise with fraction models, order sets of fractions and solve comparison problems about running, pizza and recipes.

Resource Details

Subject: Math
Topic: Comparing Fractions
Category: Fractions & Decimals
File Type: PDF
File Size: 342.8 KB
Published: 30 Oct 2026
Downloads: 0

Members Only

Upgrade to Teacher Pro (from ฿199/month) to download this resource.

Upgrade to Pro Login

Looking for something different? Request a Resource.

Grade 4 (ages 9–10) 50 minutes Fractions equivalent fractions number sense reasoning problem solving

Learning Objectives

Compare two fractions using the symbols >, < and =.
Choose a strategy: same denominator, same numerator, the benchmark 1/2 or a common denominator.
Order fractions from least to greatest and solve comparison word problems.

How to Use This Resource

Show two paper strips cut into eighths and thirds and ask which piece is bigger.
Teach the four strategies with the slides, then use worksheet activities 1 to 6.
Use the quiz to check learning and send the homework page home.

Classroom Activity Ideas

Fraction war: pairs each turn over a fraction card; the greater fraction wins both cards. Players must say which strategy they used.
Human number line: children holding fraction cards stand on a 0 to 1 line on the floor.
Benchmark sort: sort fraction cards into less than 1/2, equal to 1/2 and greater than 1/2.

Differentiation

Support: use fraction strips and start with same denominators. Challenge: compare fractions with denominators up to 12 and explain which strategy is fastest.

Assessment

Activity 1 and the quiz check comparing; activities 2 to 6 check strategies, ordering and problem solving. Use the rubric for activity 6.

Teacher Tips

Ask children to name their strategy before they answer. It stops guessing and builds flexible thinking.

What's Included

10-page printable PDF lesson pack: teacher lesson plan with timings, materials and differentiation
Key vocabulary list (6 words with meanings and examples)
Student worksheet (6 activities)
Quiz / assessment (4 parts)
Homework practice page
Printable flashcards: 6 A5 picture cards (separate PDF)
Assessment rubric (4 levels)
Lesson slides (editable PowerPoint)
Editable Word version of all student pages
Complete answer key (also as a separate PDF)