Year 3 - Maths
Compare fractions with the same numerator
Non-unit fractions
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This pupil-friendly study guide includes a unit summary, clear notes, common mistakes, and quick questions with answers.
Unit Summary
In this unit pupils will explain that non-unit fractions are composed of more than one unit fraction using knowledge of unit fractions to find one whole.
Lesson Summary
You will learn to compare fractions with the same numerator.
Key Notes
- To compare fractions with the same numerator, the whole must be the same.
- When the numerators are the same, the greater the denominator, the smaller the fraction.
- When the numerators are the same, the smaller the denominator, the larger / greater the fraction.
Vocabulary To Learn
- Denominator: A denominator is the bottom number written in a fraction.
- Numerator: A numerator is the top number written in a fraction.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- When a number is higher, its value is greater. Pupils may struggle to understand that as the denominator gets larger / greater, the size of the parts get smaller.
3 Quick Questions (With Answers)
1. Solve this in steps: explain the method from this lesson and why each step matters.
To compare fractions with the same numerator, the whole must be the same. When the numerators are the same, the greater the denominator, the smaller the fraction.
2. Use this key word in a maths sentence and explain it clearly. 'Denominator'
A denominator is the bottom number written in a fraction. Use this word when showing your method, then check your final answer is reasonable.
3. Spot and fix this common maths mistake.
Mistake: When a number is higher, its value is greater. Pupils may struggle to understand that as the denominator gets larger / greater, the size of the parts get smaller. Correction: Show pupils lots of images, comparing fractions with the same numerator (e.g. one-fifth and one-third and then two-fifths and two-thirds). Highlight that even though the number of parts we have is the same, the size of those parts is different.
More Lessons In This Unit
- Compare non-unit fractions including those equal to 1 Study Guide
- Compare non-unit fractions with the same denominator Study Guide
- Explain that non-unit fractions are made of more than one unit fraction Study Guide
- Identify non-unit fractions Study Guide
- Identifying equal parts in a whole in different contexts Study Guide
- Place fractions between 0 and 1 on a number line Study Guide
- Review comparing unit fractions Study Guide
- Use knowledge of non-unit fractions to solve problems Study Guide
- Use knowledge of unit fractions to find one whole Study Guide
Browse all guides in the Year 3 Maths guide library.