Benchmarks are important tools for comparing fractions, decimals, and percentages. But, Year 7 students often find them tricky. Here are some of the main challenges they face:

• Identifying Benchmarks: Many students have a hard time recognizing common benchmarks like $\frac{1}{2}$ (one-half), $0.5$ (zero point five), and $50\%$ (fifty percent).
• Applying Benchmarks: If they don't understand these benchmarks well, they might mix up the order of values, which can lead to mistakes.

To help tackle these challenges:

1. Use Visual Aids: Using tools like number lines and pie charts can help students see how these values relate to each other.
2. Practice with Common Denominators: Teaching students to convert fractions to a common denominator can make it easier to compare them.

With regular practice, students can gain confidence in correctly ordering fractions, decimals, and percentages.