Free worksheets · Grade 4
Comparing Fractions with Unlike Denominators Worksheet
Rewrite both fractions with a common denominator, then write <, > or =.
Free printable
Comparing Fractions with Unlike Denominators
15 questions, one page, US Letter. Print it and do it on paper.
On the sheet: Find a common denominator: a number both denominators divide into. Rewrite each fraction with that denominator, multiplying its top and bottom by the same number. Compare the new numerators: the bigger numerator is the bigger fraction. Write >, < or = in the box.
We email you the link and start your 30 days of BrightPage free. No card. By continuing you agree to the Terms and Privacy Policy.
About this worksheet
Fractions with different denominators are cut into different-sized pieces, so their numerators can't be compared directly: 2/3 counts thirds and 3/5 counts fifths.
Rewrite both with a common denominator, a number both denominators divide into. Once the pieces are the same size, the bigger numerator is the bigger fraction.
A worked example
3/4 ___ 5/6
- Find a common denominator: 12, because both 4 and 6 divide into it.
- Rewrite each fraction: 3/4 = 9/12 (times 3), and 5/6 = 10/12 (times 2).
- Compare the numerators: 9 is less than 10.
Answer: 3/4 < 5/6
The common mistake
What it looks like: Comparing the denominators as whole numbers: deciding 3/8 is bigger than 1/2 because 8 is bigger than 2.
Why it happens: With whole numbers, a bigger digit means a bigger number, and that habit carries over.
How to fix it: A bigger denominator means smaller pieces. Rewrite both in eighths: 1/2 = 4/8, and 4/8 is more than 3/8.
Ten minutes a day, on paper. We plan what comes next.
A printed page and a pencil. No screen, no login for your child. Snap a photo when they’re done: AI scores it, and what they missed comes back on the sheets that follow.
- Mon Comparing Fractions with Unlike Denominators
- Tue What they missed, back again
- Wed The next step, when they’re ready
Not ready to start? A free grade 4 printable each week.
One sheet and one practice tip, about once a week. Unsubscribe in one click.