Comparing Fractions Comparing Proper Fractions

I.

To compare fractions with the same denominator, which are called like
fractions, simply compare the numerators. For example, 7/9 and 4/9 are
like fractions, so we compare the numerators. Since 7 > 4, we know that
7/9 > 4/9.

II.

To compare fractions with different denominators, which are called

unlike fractions, we must first find a common denominator. For example,
when comparing 1/2 and 1/3, we have unlike fractions, so we first find a
common denominator. The common denominator of 2 and 3 is the Least
Common Multiple of 2 and 3, or 6.
To get 6 in the denominator of 1/2, multiply
the numerator and denominator by 3, and we
have 3/6. To get 6 in the denominator of
1/3, multiply the numerator and denominator
by 2, and we have 2/6.
So now we have the like fractions 3/6 and
2/6, which we can compare by simply
comparing the numerators. Since 3 is
greater than 2, 3/6 is greater than 2/6,
which means that 1/2 is greater than 1/3.