Go Math! Grade 3, Chapter 9: Compare Fractions
In this unit, your child compares fractions using models, number lines, and reasoning. When the denominators, the bottom numbers, match, more parts means more; when the numerators match, smaller pieces mean less. They also find equivalent fractions, like 2/3 and 4/6, by folding strips and drawing models. This builds on the last unit, and shapes come next.
By Robert “Bobby” BarnettMath teacher, parent, and founder of Bobby’s Math Club
What is my child learning in Chapter 9?
- Comparing fractions with the same numerator or the same denominator, like 3/8 and 5/8, and finding equivalent fractions with folded strips. Learn more about finding equal fractions, like 1/2 = 2/4: Finding equal fractions, like 1/2 = 2/4 · Learn more about comparing fractions by size
Sample questions to try together
These are real questions from our practice. Tap the speaker to hear one read aloud, or the light bulb for a hint, and talk about the answer together.
Question 1 of 3
A pizza is cut into 6 equal slices. Which fraction names the whole pizza?
- 1/6
- 6/1
- 6/6
How you can help
- Fold two same-size paper strips, one into thirds and one into sixths, and line them up to find how many sixths match 2/3 (4).
- Ask your child which is more, 3/8 or 5/8 of the same pizza, and how the denominator helps them decide.
- Measure out rice or cereal with a 1/2 cup and with 1/4 cups to show that two fourths fill the same amount as one half.
Where kids can get stuck
- Ranking 1/10 above 1/2 because 10 is the larger number, though tenths are much smaller pieces.
- Comparing fractions of different-sized wholes, like half of a small pizza and half of a large one, as if they were equal.
- Using the greater-than and less-than symbols backward, so 3/8 < 5/8 gets written as 3/8 > 5/8.
Practice makes perfect
Bobby's Math Club has practice problems that adapt to your child’s level, each with a detailed explanation and an easy-to-follow video, so your child can build confidence in these skills one step at a time.
Words your child will hear
- compare
- To look at two numbers and tell which is bigger or whether they match.
- equivalent fractions
- Fractions that name the same amount, like 1/2 and 2/4.
- numerator
- The top number in a fraction, counting the parts we are talking about.
- denominator
- The bottom number in a fraction, naming how many equal parts the whole has.
- greater than
- Bigger than; shown with the symbol >, as in 3/4 > 1/4.
- less than
- Smaller than; shown with the symbol <, as in 1/4 < 3/4.
- same denominator
- Fractions whose wholes are cut into the same number of equal parts.
- same numerator
- Fractions with the same number of parts taken, like 3/4 and 3/8.
Ready to build your child’s confidence with which fraction is greater?
In Bobby's Math Club, your child practices these skills at just the right level, with a hint when they need one, a clear explanation after every question, and kid-friendly videos. Unlimited practice is free.
Join the club
Written by Robert “Bobby” Barnett
Bobby is an award-winning math teacher, the author of Meet Every Learner’s Needs, and the father of two elementary-school math learners. He uses Bobby’s Math Club with his own kids a few times every week. Learn more or contact Bobby.
Which math standards does Go Math! Grade 3 Chapter 9 cover?
Go Math! Grade 3 Chapter 9 covers this math standard. Each one links to what it means, sample questions, and teaching strategies.
- 3.NF.A.3: Find equal fractions, like 1/2 = 2/4, and compare fractions by size.
For teachers: Unit names and order vary between editions and districts, so your school’s own materials have the exact sequence. Learn how Bobby's Math Club can help your students grow.