3rd Grade Math · Compare Fractions with the Same Numerator or Denominator
Same denominator Worksheets
Fresh practice, ready to print. Answer key included.
The pieces are the same size, so compare how many, such as 3/8 and 5/8.
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Or start with a ready-made version.
How it works: a quick refresher
The rules this worksheet practices, then one problem worked from start to finish.
| Strategy | How it works |
|---|---|
| Same denominator | Compare the numerators. 3/8 is less than 5/8 because 3 pieces is fewer than 5 pieces of the same size. |
| The denominator names the piece | In 3/8, the 8 says each piece is one eighth. It stays the same while you count the pieces. |
| Same numerator | 1/8 is less than 1/3. Both are one piece, and an eighth is a smaller piece than a third. |
| Equal fractions | The same numerator and the same denominator means the same amount. 2/4 = 2/4. |
| Reading the sign | The point of < faces the smaller fraction. The open side faces the larger one. |
Worked example
Compare 3/8 and 5/8.
- 1Both denominators are 8, so the pieces are the same size.
- 2Compare the numerators: 3 and 5.
- 33 is less than 5, so 3 eighths is less than 5 eighths.
- 43/8 < 5/8.
Ready-made versions
Three fixed versions you can link to or share. Each is a PDF with its own answer key.
- Same denominator Worksheets, version 1Worksheet PDFAnswer key PDF
- Same denominator Worksheets, version 2Worksheet PDFAnswer key PDF
- Same denominator Worksheets, version 3Worksheet PDFAnswer key PDF
Grade level and standard
Written for 3rd grade math (fractions) and aligned to CCSS 3.NF.A.3. It also works as review in later grades.
Common questions
- Is there an answer key?
- Yes. Every worksheet has a matching answer key with each answer worked on the same grid or layout as the question. The worksheet code printed at the bottom of each page pairs a sheet with its key.
- Why is 1/8 smaller than 1/3 when 8 is bigger than 3?
- The denominator says how many pieces the whole was cut into. Eight pieces means smaller pieces than three. One small piece is less than one larger piece.
- Should my child cross-multiply in grade 3?
- No. Grade 3 compares fractions that share a numerator or a denominator, by thinking about the size and the number of pieces. Cross-multiplying comes later, with fractions that differ in both.
- How many different versions are there?
- About a million per skill. Each time you press the button the problems are generated fresh, so you can print a different version for every student, a retake, or another night of practice.
- Are the worksheets free?
- Yes. They are free to print and copy for your home or classroom, with no sign-up.
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