Go Math! Grade 4, Chapter 6: Fraction Equivalence and Comparison
In this unit, your child learns to make equivalent fractions with models and multiplication, write fractions in simplest form, and compare and order fractions with different denominators. They use benchmarks like 1/2 to compare quickly. It uses the factors from the last unit and leads into adding and subtracting fractions.
By Robert “Bobby” BarnettMath teacher, parent, and founder of Bobby’s Math Club
What is my child learning in Chapter 6?
- Generating equivalent fractions, like 2/5 = 4/10, with models and multiplication, and using common factors to find simplest form. Learn more: Why fractions like 3/4 and 6/8 are equal
- Comparing and ordering fractions with unlike denominators using the benchmark 1/2, common numerators, or common denominators. Learn more: Comparing fractions like 2/3 and 5/6
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
What is the missing number? 4/5 = ?/10
- 4
- 9
- 8
How you can help
- Compare two game scores, like 2 out of 5 shots and 5 out of 8. Ask your child which is less than half and which is more, and so which is the better score.
- Fold a paper strip into fourths and shade 3. Fold it again into eighths and ask your child to name the shaded part both ways, 3/4 and 6/8.
- Compare slices of two same-size pizzas, one in 6 slices and one in 8. Ask your child whether 3 of the sixths or 4 of the eighths is more, and why they match.
Where kids can get stuck
- Thinking 1/6 is bigger than 1/3 because 6 is bigger than 3.
- Adding 1 to the numerator and denominator, so 1/2 seems equal to 2/3.
- Multiplying only the numerator, so 2/5 seems equal to 4/5.
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
- numerator
- The top number of a fraction, telling how many equal parts are counted.
- denominator
- The bottom number of a fraction, telling how many equal parts make one whole.
- equivalent fractions
- Fractions that name the same amount, like 3/4 and 6/8.
- simplest form
- A fraction whose numerator and denominator have no common factor except 1, like 3/4.
- common factor
- A number that is a factor of two or more numbers, like 3 for 6 and 9.
- benchmark fraction
- A familiar fraction, like 1/2 or 1, used to compare other fractions.
- common denominator
- The same denominator shared by two fractions, which makes them easy to compare or add.
Want to help your child master comparing fractions?
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 4 Chapter 6 cover?
Go Math! Grade 4 Chapter 6 covers these math standards. Each one links to what it means, sample questions, and teaching strategies.
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.