How to explain order fractions with the same denominator in compare & order fractions to your child: Example question
31 October 2026
Ordering fractions with the same denominator is a useful skill for children preparing for the 11+. When all the denominators are the same, comparing the fractions becomes much simpler. Use this clear example to help your child see how to put these fractions in order.
Worked example
Order these fractions from smallest to largest:
3/8, 7/8, 2/8, 5/8
Step 1: Look at the denominators. All the fractions have 8 as the denominator.
Step 2: Compare the numerators.
The numerators are 3, 7, 2 and 5.
Step 3: Put the numerators in order from smallest to largest: 2, 3, 5, 7.
Step 4: Match each numerator to its fraction:
2/8, 3/8, 5/8, 7/8
Key insight: When the denominators are the same, the biggest numerator means the biggest fraction.
The correct order is: 2/8, 3/8, 5/8, 7/8.
After working through this example, your child will recognise that the numerator decides which fraction is bigger or smaller when the denominators match. They can now try similar questions to build confidence with ordering fractions in this way.
