Math · Stage 3
Compare & Order Fractions with a Common Denominator
When the bottom numbers are different, rename the fractions so they share one denominator — then the bigger top number wins.
✦ Math📘 Stage 3 · S3⏱ ~11 min🧒 Ages 7–8★ Free to start
I can compare and order fractions, using equivalent fractions with a common denominator where the denominators differ.
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Kavi Shares Two Pizzas 🍕
Kavi has two same-size pizzas 🍕. One is cut into thirds and Kavi eats 2/3; the other is cut into quarters and a friend eats 3/4. "The pieces are different sizes — how do I tell who ate more?" hoots Kavi. "Easy — cut them both into the same number of equal parts! In twelfths, 2/3 becomes 8/12 and 3/4 becomes 9/12. Now I can see 3/4 is bigger!"
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What your child will learn
1The same amount can wear two namesShade 1/2 of this bar. Now look: the very same shaded amount is also 2/4, and 3/6. Splitting each part into more equal pieces does not change how much is shaded — it only renames it. These are equivalent fractions. Tap parts to shade.
2Give both fractions the SAME bottom numberTo compare 2/3 and 3/4 we need the same denominator. Since 3 × 4 = 12, twelfths work for both. Here is 2/3 drawn as twelfths: 2/3 = 8/12 (multiply top and bottom by 4). Tap parts to shade eight twelfths.
3Same bottom? Compare the topsOnce both fractions share a denominator, the one with the bigger top number is bigger. We found 2/3 = 8/12 and 3/4 = 9/12. Nine twelfths beats eight twelfths. Tap each card.
4Order fractions by renaming to twelfths
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A peek inside
Who ate more pizza — Kavi with 2/3 or the friend with 3/4? 🍕
common denominator 12: 2/3 = 8/12 and 3/4 = 9/12; 9 twelfths > 8 twelfths
Try this at home: Rewrite 2/3 and 3/4 with denominator 12, then compare.
Ready to play and learn?
Start the free interactive lesson, or print the handout for screen-free play.
Part of Math · Stage 3 · S3 on KAVI Academy — a secular, whole-child learning platform for ages 5–12.