Finding a common measure to compare fractions
Use the same whole and equal-sized pieces when comparing fractions with different numerators and denominators. Looking only at numerators ignores piece size.
Try it yourself first.
Show 2/3 and 3/5 on identical wholes divided into fifteen parts. Explain which is greater.
View the solution or example answer
2/3 = 10/15 and 3/5 = 9/15. Ten equal-sized pieces exceed nine, so 2/3 is greater. The common denominator provides a common measure.
Your next step.
Also mark their approximate positions on a number line. Check that both representations agree. Denominator size alone cannot rank fractions.
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