Formative Instructional and Assessment Tasks
Domain
Cluster
Standard(s)
Materials
Task
Which is Bigger?
4.NF.2- Task 3
Number & Operations- Fractions
Extend understanding of fraction equivalence and ordering.
4.NF.2. 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.
Pattern blocks, Paper and pencil
Optional: Graph paper
*Computer-based pattern blocks can be found herehttp://illuminations.nctm.org/ActivityDetail.aspx?ID=27
Which is Bigger?
Two joint hexagons have a value of 1 whole. Based on that, draw each fraction in terms of
pattern blocks and determine which is bigger:
 3/4 or 4/6
 1/2 or 5/12
 2/4 or 3/6
 5/6 or 3/4
Write your own comparison question using fourths, sixths, or twelfths. Draw a picture to
prove which is easier.
Pick one of the questions above and write a sentence explaining how you know that you
are correct.
Level I
Limited Performance
The student has not shown a clear
understanding about how to find
equivalent fractions.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Rubric
Level II
Not Yet Proficient
Answer is correct, but the
explanation is unclear OR work is
logically shown but the student has
made a calculation error.
Level III
Proficient in Performance
Solutions: 4/6, 1/2, they are
equal, 5/6. AND
The sentence shows a clear and
logical explanation of their
strategy.
Standards for Mathematical Practice
Makes sense and perseveres in solving problems.
Reasons abstractly and quantitatively.
Constructs viable arguments and critiques the reasoning of others.
Models with mathematics.
Uses appropriate tools strategically.
Attends to precision.
Looks for and makes use of structure.
Looks for and expresses regularity in repeated reasoning.
NC DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC INSTRUCTION
FOURTH GRADE
Formative Instructional and Assessment Tasks
Which is Bigger?
If two hexagons have a value of 1 whole, think about the value of other pattern block. Draw each fraction
below in terms of pattern blocks and determine which is bigger:

3/4 or 4/6

1/2 or 5/12

2/4 or 3/6

5/6 or 3/4
Write your own comparison question using fourths, sixths, or twelfths. Draw a picture to prove which is easier.
Pick one of the questions above and write a sentence explaining how you know that you are correct.
NC DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC INSTRUCTION
FOURTH GRADE