Wyoming Math 4.NF.2c
The Standard
Compare two fractions with different numerators and different denominators by creating common denominators or numerators, or by comparing to a benchmark fraction such as 1/2. Justify the conclusions by using a visual fraction model.
2023 Wyoming Mathematics Content and Performance Standards · Extend understanding of fraction equivalence and ordering (limited to denominators 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, and 100).
Teacher's field guide
What This Standard Means
What Students Need to Do
- Students compare fractions with different numerators and denominators. They find a shared numerator or denominator, or compare each fraction with one-half. They draw equal-size fraction bars to show why their answer makes sense.
What Mastery Looks Like
- A student can show that 3/4 equals 6/8, so it is greater than 5/8. They can shade equal-size bars to show that 3/8 is below one-half while 2/3 is above it.
Common Misconceptions
- Students may think the fraction with the larger denominator is always greater. Some compare only the numerators, or draw bars of different lengths and treat them as the same whole.
How to Assess It
- Ask students: Which is greater, 3/4 or 5/8? Draw two equal-size bars, label an equivalent fraction, and write a sentence explaining your choice.
Lesson moves
Ways to Teach It
Fold two equal paper strips into fourths and eighths, shade 3/4 and 5/8, and line up their ends.
Ask, 'Which is greater, 3/8 or 2/3?' Have students draw equal-size bars and explain how one-half helps them decide.
Give partners fraction cards; award a point when they compare a pair and prove it with a labeled bar drawing.
Sketch two identical one-cup measuring jugs marked in eighths to compare a recipe's 3/4 cup milk and 5/8 cup water.
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Printable 4.NF.2c Worksheet

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Related Standards
- 4.NF.3b
Decompose a fraction into a sum of fractions with the same denominator in more than one way, recording each decomposition by an equation. Justify decompositions...
- 5.NF.6
Solve real-world problems involving multiplication of fractions and mixed numbers by using visual fraction models or equations to represent the problem.
- 5.NF.7
Extend the concept of division to divide unit fractions and whole numbers by using visual fraction models and equations.
- 6.NS.1
Interpret and compute quotients of fractions, and solve word problems involving division of fractions by fractions by using visual fraction models and equations...
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