Graph and order fractions on number lines: Example question
31 October 2026
Understanding how to place and order fractions on a number line is a key skill for 11+ maths. It helps children see which fractions are bigger or smaller by their position between 0 and 1.
Place the fractions 1/4, 1/2 and 3/4 on a number line and order them from smallest to largest.
Step 1: Draw a number line from 0 to 1.
Step 2: Divide the number line into 4 equal parts because the largest denominator is 4.
Step 3: Mark 1/4 at the first division, 1/2 at the second division (which is 2/4), and 3/4 at the third division.
Step 4: The fraction closest to 0 is the smallest. The fraction closest to 1 is the largest.
The fractions in order from smallest to largest are 1/4, 1/2, 3/4.
Click or tap on the number line to answer
Key insight: Once your child can plot fractions on a number line, they can easily compare and order them. This builds confidence for similar questions in practice and exams.
