Ordering Fractions: Step-by-Step Example
22 October 2026
Ordering fractions can be tricky for children, especially when the numbers on the bottom (the denominators) are different. Here is a clear example to help your child see how to put fractions in order from smallest to largest.
Worked example
Order these fractions from smallest to largest:
1/4, 2/3, 3/8
Step 1: Make the denominators the same. The lowest common denominator for 4, 3 and 8 is 24.
Change 1/4 to twenty-fourths: 1 × 6 = 6, 4 × 6 = 24. So 1/4 = 6/24.
Change 2/3 to twenty-fourths: 2 × 8 = 16, 3 × 8 = 24. So 2/3 = 16/24.
Change 3/8 to twenty-fourths: 3 × 3 = 9, 8 × 3 = 24. So 3/8 = 9/24.
Step 2: Compare the numerators. 6/24, 9/24, 16/24.
Step 3: Put them in order from smallest to largest: 6/24 (1/4), 9/24 (3/8), 16/24 (2/3).
The correct order is: 1/4, 3/8, 2/3.
Key insight: Changing all fractions to have the same denominator makes them easy to compare.
| Fraction | Equivalent with denominator 24 |
|---|---|
| 1/4 | 6/24 |
| 2/3 | 16/24 |
| 3/8 | 9/24 |
Now your child can spot which fraction is smallest or largest by making the denominators the same. This skill is useful for many 11+ maths questions, and there are more practice problems just like this to build confidence.
