Skill: Compare fractions with the same numerator

When fractions have the same numerator, compare the denominators.

The denominator tells how many equal parts the whole is divided into:

• A smaller denominator means fewer, larger parts.
• A larger denominator means more, smaller parts.

So, with the same numerator, the fraction with the smaller denominator is greater.

Example: Compare $\frac{3}{4}$ and $\frac{3}{8}$

1. Both fractions have the same numerator, $3$. This means we are comparing 3 parts to 3 parts.

2. Compare the denominators: $4$ and $8$.

3. Fourths are larger pieces than eighths because a whole divided into 4 equal parts makes bigger parts than a whole divided into 8 equal parts.

4. Therefore, 3 fourths is greater than 3 eighths:

$$\frac{3}{4}>\frac{3}{8}$$

Remember: When the numerators are the same, the fraction with the smaller denominator is larger.