standard_description: Compare two fractions with different numerators and different denominators, e.g., by creating common denominators or numerators, or by comparing to a benchmark fraction such as 1/2. Recognize that comparisons are valid only when the two fractions refer to the same whole. Record the results of comparisons with symbols >, =, or <, and justify the conclusions, e.g., by using a visual fraction model.
Grade 4 expectations in this domain are limited to fractions with denominators 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, and 100.
problem_activity: Problem 1
The table below shows the distance that Ms. Smith's fourth graders ran before stopping for a rest.
| Student | Distance (in miles) |
|---------|---------------------|
|   Joe   |  $${2{1\over2}}$$   |
| Arianna |  $${1{3\over4}}$$   |
|  Bobbi  |  $${2{1\over8}}$$   |
| Morgan  | $${1{{5\over8}}}$$  |
|  Jack   | $${2{{5\over8}}}$$  |
|  Sasha  |  $${2{1\over4}}$$   |
|  Tyler  |  $${2{2\over4}}$$   |
|  Jenny  |   $${{5\over8}}$$   |
|  Anson  |  $${2{2\over8}}$$   |
| Chandra |  $${2{4\over8}}$$   |
Using the information in the table, answer the following questions:
a.   What was the longest distance a student ran?
b.   What was the shortest distance a student ran?
c.   What was the most common distance that students ran?
Problem 2
Use the data from Anchor Task #1 to create a line plot.
Problem 3
a.   With a partner or group, gather a handful of round buttons from a diverse collection and use a ruler to measure the diameter of each button to the nearest eighth inch.
b.   Make a dot plot of button diameters, marking your scale in eighth-inch increments.
c.   What is the most common diameter in your collection? How does that compare with the collection from another group?
d.   Now measure the diameters of these same buttons to the nearest quarter inch.
e.   Make a dot plot of button diameters, marking your scale in quarter-inch increments.
f.   Describe the differences between the two dot plots you created. Which one gives you more information? Which one is easier to read?


aligns: no