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Year 3 - Maths

Compare and order unit fractions by looking at the denominator

Compare and order unit fractions

Unit Summary

In this unit pupils will compare and order unit fractions by looking at the denominator and understanding what it represents.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to compare and order unit fractions by looking at the denominator.

Key Notes

  • When the whole is the same, the greater the number of equal parts, the smaller each equal part is.
  • When the whole is the same, the smaller the number of equal parts, the larger each equal part is.
  • When comparing and ordering unit fractions, the greater the denominator, the smaller the fraction.
  • When comparing and ordering unit fractions, the smaller the denominator, the larger the fraction.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • Whole: The whole is all of a group or number.
  • Part: A part is a section of the whole.
  • Denominator: A denominator is the bottom number in a fraction. It shows how many equal parts a whole has been divided into.
  • Unit fraction: A unit fraction is a fraction where the numerator is 1

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • Children will often fall into the trap of thinking that a greater denominator creates a bigger fraction.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Solve this in steps: explain the method from this lesson and why each step matters.

When the whole is the same, the greater the number of equal parts, the smaller each equal part is. When the whole is the same, the smaller the number of equal parts, the larger each equal part is.

2. Use this key word in a maths sentence and explain it clearly. 'Whole'

The whole is all of a group or number. Use this word when showing your method, then check your final answer is reasonable.

3. Spot and fix this common maths mistake.

Mistake: Children will often fall into the trap of thinking that a greater denominator creates a bigger fraction. Correction: Ensure the children have good access to fraction walls to reinforce the fact that the greater the denominator the smaller the fraction. Fraction walls that can be dismantled and arranged are very useful for this.

More Lessons In This Unit

Browse all guides in the Year 3 Maths guide library.