3rd Grade Comparing Fractions Closer to Zero Worksheet: Which Dot Wins?

A number line makes it easy to see which of two fractions is bigger. This 3rd grade comparing fractions closer to zero worksheet has four items, labelled a to d, and each item shows two number lines, one above the other. A red dot marks one fraction on each line. In items a and d, your child says which fraction is greater, while in items b and c they say which one is less. Item a compares 4/8 and 5/8, and item b compares 2/3 with 2/6. Item c sets 5/8 against 2/4, so the two lines are cut into different parts. Item d uses elevenths, which is a stretch for third grade. A boy with a backpack reads a map in the corner. Page two explains items a and b, then it gives the last two answers.

Four answers to check

The answers are 5/8 is greater than 4/8, 2/6 is less than 2/3, 2/4 is less than 5/8, and 7/11 is greater than 6/11. All the answers in the key are right, and every dot sits on the mark that it names.

The key uses one simple rule. The dot that is closer to 0 shows the smaller fraction, so the dot farther along the line shows the bigger one. This rule only works because both lines in a pair have the same length, from 0 to 1. Comparing fractions on a number line is a key third grade skill.

At the table: line up the lines

Ask your child to lay a ruler straight down across both lines, right through the first red dot. If the second dot sits to the left of the ruler, it is closer to 0, so it is the smaller fraction. Then they write the answer in words, such as "2/6 is less than 2/3".

The page has a few small points to watch. Items c and d have no worked steps in the key, only the answers. Also, the lines in item c are cut into eighths and fourths, so your child cannot just compare the top numbers. Elevenths go past the third grade list of 2, 3, 4, 6 and 8, so treat item d as a bonus.

After the page: a chalk race

Draw a long chalk line on the pavement and mark 0 at the start and 1 at the finish. Then split it into four equal parts and stand on 3/4. Ask your child to stand on 1/4 and say who is closer to the finish. Next, swap places and try again with halves. Finally, check the four answers with the answer key on page two.