Comparing Numbers Worksheets
Decide which group has more, use the greater-than and less-than symbols and put numbers in order.
Kindergarten
- Comparing Groups of ObjectsK · Comparing Numbers
- Comparing Numbers to 20K, G1 · Comparing Numbers
- Ordering Numbers to 20K, G1 · Comparing Numbers
Grade 1
- Comparing Numbers to 100G1, G2 · Comparing Numbers
- Ordering Numbers to 100G1, G2 · Comparing Numbers
- Comparing NumbersG1, G2 · Math
Grade 2
- Comparing Numbers to 1,000G2, G3 · Comparing Numbers
- Ordering Numbers to 1,000G2, G3 · Comparing Numbers
Grade 3
Greater than, less than and equal to
Comparing is the first real mathematical reasoning a child does. It starts with groups of objects (which has more?), moves to numerals (which is greater?) and finishes with writing the symbols <, > and =. A popular way to remember the symbols is that the 'mouth' of the sign always opens towards the bigger number, like a hungry crocodile.
Ordering numbers from least to greatest, or the reverse, combines comparing with place value: look first at the tens (or hundreds) digit, and only if those are equal look at the next digit. These sheets give plenty of practice at each stage, and the same skills are extended in the place-value section.
Questions parents ask
How do I teach the greater-than and less-than symbols?
Use the hungry-crocodile image: the open mouth always faces the larger number. Practising with groups of objects first makes the symbols meaningful.
Why do children confuse 'greater' and 'less'?
The words are abstract. Ask 'which group has more?' with real objects first, and always say the full sentence aloud: 'seven is greater than four'.
