Georgia 3.NR.4.2
The Standard
Compare two unit fractions by flexibly using a variety of tools and strategies.
Georgia's K-12 Mathematics Standards · Represent fractions with denominators of 2, 3, 4, 6 and 8 in multiple ways within a framework using visual models.
Teacher's field guide
What This Standard Means
What Students Need to Do
- Students compare unit fractions with denominators of 2, 3, 4, 6, and 8. They use fraction strips, number lines, or area models and explain why one fraction is greater, less, or equal.
What Mastery Looks Like
- Students correctly compare pairs such as 1/4 and 1/8 using symbols, models, or benchmarks. They explain that when wholes are equal, more equal parts create smaller pieces.
Common Misconceptions
- Students may think a larger denominator makes a larger fraction because 8 is greater than 4. They may also compare pieces from wholes of different sizes or focus only on shaded-piece counts.
How to Assess It
- Exit ticket: Compare 1/3 and 1/6. Draw a model, write the correct comparison symbol, and explain how the model proves your answer.
Lesson moves
Ways to Teach It
Give students same-length fraction strips for halves, thirds, fourths, sixths, and eighths, then have them place pairs side by side and compare.
Ask students to explain in writing why 1/8 is less than 1/4, using the phrase same-size whole.
Play Fraction War with unit-fraction cards, where partners reveal cards, model each fraction, and keep both cards if they identify the greater fraction.
Show two same-size pizzas cut into different numbers of equal slices, then ask which single slice gives a larger serving and why.
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Printable 3.NR.4.2 Worksheet
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Related Standards
- 5.NR.3.2
Compare and order up to three fractions with different numerators and/or different denominators by flexibly using a variety of tools and strategies.
- 4.NR.4.6
Add and subtract fractions and mixed numbers with like denominators using a variety of tools.
- 5.NR.3.6
Model and solve problems involving division of a unit fraction by a whole number and a whole number by a unit fraction.
- 4.NR.4.3
Compare two fractions with different numerators and/or different denominators by flexibly using a variety of tools and strategies and recognize that comparisons...
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