Compare with Cross Multiplication

Worksheet Description

This worksheet is a mathematical exercise focused on comparing the sizes of improper fractions using cross multiplication. Unlike proper fractions, improper fractions have numerators larger than or equal to their denominators. The sheet provides an example that illustrates the process of multiplying the numerator of one fraction by the denominator of the other fraction across two fractions to see which product is larger, thereby determining which fraction is greater. There are fourteen comparison problems, and for each, students are tasked with determining which of the two improper fractions is larger by using cross multiplication.

The worksheet is teaching students how to compare the magnitude of improper fractions through a method that avoids the need to find a common denominator or convert the fractions into decimals or mixed numbers. By using cross multiplication, students can quickly and efficiently determine the greater fraction by comparing the cross products directly. This skill is important in higher-level math, especially when dealing with algebraic fractions and solving inequalities. The practice provided by this worksheet aims to reinforce students’ number sense when dealing with fractions and to prepare them for more complex fraction comparisons.