3 Use a benchmark fraction to compare the fractions \( \frac{7}{10} \) and \( \frac{5}{12} \) Explain how you found your answer.

To compare \( \frac{7}{10} \) and \( \frac{5}{12} \) using a benchmark fraction, we can use \( \frac{1}{2} \) as our benchmark. Converting both fractions to decimals helps us see this more clearly; \( \frac{7}{10} = 0.7 \) and \( \frac{5}{12} \) is approximately \( 0.4167 \). Since \( 0.7 \) is greater than \( 0.5 \), and \( 0.4167 \) is less than \( 0.5 \), we conclude that \( \frac{7}{10} \) is greater than \( \frac{5}{12} \). By using benchmark fractions, you can quickly assess where other fractions stand in relation to commonly understood values. This method not only simplifies comparison but also enhances number sense! It’s a handy tool to avoid getting lost in calculations and to make fraction comparisons a breeze!