What Are Benchmark Fractions?
Benchmark fractions are special fractions we use as reference points to compare other fractions.
The most common benchmarks are 0, ½, and 1. By comparing fractions to these benchmarks, we can quickly tell which fraction is larger or smaller without having to find common denominators!
How to Compare Using Benchmarks
1️⃣ Find the benchmarks: Identify if the fraction is close to 0, ½, or 1
2️⃣ Compare positions: See where each fraction falls between these benchmarks
3️⃣ Make your decision: The fraction closer to 1 is larger, closer to 0 is smaller
Let's Practice Together!
Example 1: Compare ⅖ and ¾
Which fraction is larger?
⅖ is less than ½ (since 2.5/5 would be ½) and ¾ is more than ½. Therefore, ¾ is larger than ⅖!
Example 2: Is ⅞ closer to ½ or 1?
Think about it:
⅞ is very close to 1 (only ⅛ away), while it's ⅜ away from ½. Therefore, ⅞ is much closer to 1!
Parent Tips 🌟
- Kitchen fractions: When cooking, ask your child to compare ingredient amounts ("Is ⅔ cup more or less than ¾ cup?").
- Visual aids: Use a ruler or measuring tape to show how fractions compare to whole numbers.
- Game time: Play "Fraction War" with cards - each player draws two cards to make a fraction, then compare using benchmarks.