Grade 2 Mathematics Fractions – Comparing Fractions In Size Notes
Mathematics — Fractions
Subtopic: Comparing Fractions in Size (Age 7)
Learning goal: Learn how to tell which fraction is bigger or smaller using simple pictures and rules.
Important rules (easy):
- If two fractions have the same denominator (bottom number), the one with the bigger numerator (top number) is larger. Example: 3/4 > 2/4.
- If two fractions have the same numerator (top number), the one with the smaller denominator (bottom number) is larger. Example: 1/2 > 1/4.
Visual examples
Compare 3/4 and 2/4
3/4
2/4
Because 3 parts are coloured for 3/4 and only 2 parts for 2/4, 3/4 is bigger than 2/4.
Compare 1/2 and 1/4
1/2
1/4
Both are one part, but the part of 1/2 is bigger than the part of 1/4. So 1/2 > 1/4.
Same numerator: 1/3 and 1/6
1/3
1/6
One part of a third is bigger than one part of a sixth, so 1/3 > 1/6.
How to compare when denominators are different (easy way)
Example: Compare 1/2 and 3/4.
- Make the parts the same size. Change 1/2 to fourths: 1/2 = 2/4.
- Now compare 2/4 and 3/4. 3/4 is bigger.
Try these questions
- Which is bigger: 2/5 or 3/5?
- Which is bigger: 1/4 or 1/2?
- Which is bigger: 3/6 or 2/6?
- Which is bigger: 1/3 or 1/5?
- Which is bigger: 2/3 or 3/4? (Hint: make parts the same size)
- Order from smallest to biggest: 1/4, 1/2, 3/4.
Answers
- 3/5 is bigger.
- 1/2 is bigger.
- 3/6 is bigger.
- 1/3 is bigger.
- 3/4 is bigger. (2/3 = 8/12 and 3/4 = 9/12)
- Smallest to biggest: 1/4, 1/2, 3/4.
Practical tip: Use real things to check — cut a mango or a chapati into pieces. Colour parts of paper or draw rectangles like above. This helps you see which fraction is larger.
Note for teachers/parents: Keep examples short and use objects the child knows (fruits, paper, sweets). Repeat the two simple rules often.