Comparing and Ordering Numbers
We can compare numbers to find out which is more (greater) and which is less (smaller). We use the symbols > (greater than) and < (less than) to compare numbers.
What You Need to Know
We can compare numbers to find out which is more (greater) and which is less (smaller). We use the symbols > (greater than) and < (less than) to compare numbers.
Key Concept Diagram
Greater than (>) means the first number is bigger: 8 > 3
Less than (<) means the first number is smaller: 3 < 8
Equal to (=) means both numbers are the same: 5 = 5
The open end of > or < always faces the bigger number
Key Vocabulary
greater than
Bigger than; written as >
less than
Smaller than; written as <
equal to
The same amount; written as =
compare
To look at two numbers and decide which is bigger, smaller, or equal
Knowledge Check
Select the correct answer for each question. Click "Check Answer" to see if you are right.
Question 1
Which symbol goes between 7 and 4? 7 __ 4
Question 2
Which symbol goes between 3 and 9? 3 __ 9
Question 3
Which number is GREATER: 15 or 12?
Question 4
Put these in order from smallest to greatest: 9, 3, 7
Question 5
Which is true?
Key Concepts Summary
- ●Greater than (>) means the first number is bigger: 8 > 3
- ●Less than (<) means the first number is smaller: 3 < 8
- ●Equal to (=) means both numbers are the same: 5 = 5
- ●The open end of > or < always faces the bigger number