Comparing Numbers

 

Comparing Numbers

We have been comparing numbers in class using symbols and place value.

=
When two values are equal,
we use the "equals" sign
example: 2+2 = 4
<
When one value is smaller than another,
we can use a "less than" sign.
example: 3 < 5
>
When one value is bigger than another,
we can use a "greater than" sign
example: 9 > 6

Less Than and Greater Than

The "less than" sign and the "greater than" sign look like a "V" on its side, don't they?
To remember which way around the "<" and ">" signs go, just remember:
  • BIG > small
  • small < BIG
The "small" end always points to the smaller number, like this:

greater than sign
                                      Greater Than Symbol: BIG > small

We use place value to help us compare numbers. We always look at the largest PLACE VALUE to determine which digit in the largest place value is larger or smaller. If the digits are the same, we move to the next place value. We continue this until we determine whether the numbers are greater than, less than, or equal to each other.

Image result for comparing large numbers

Here are a couple of videos that explain the process:

Study Jams Ordering Whole Numbers

Study Jams Number Lines




Here are some fun games that have you practicing these skills (be sure to click on the higher levels for the larger numbers):




Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Measuring Angles with Protractors

Fractions & Decimals

Weather Instruments