Comparing numbers within 20
Which is more, 12 cookies or 15 cookies? You probably already know — but in math we have a special way to write the answer down. We use little signs called the comparison signs.
Why we compare
We compare numbers all the time:
- Who has more crayons?
- Are there enough cups for everyone?
- Is this pile bigger than that one?
In first grade we practice comparing on paper. Once you see how it works, comparing is just like deciding which of two snacks looks tastier — only with numbers.
The three signs
There are exactly three signs you need:
- the sign for "less than": <
- the sign for "greater than": >
- the sign for "equal to": =
The pointy end of the < or > always points to the smaller number. Some kids remember it as a hungry crocodile that always wants to eat the bigger snack.
A quick example
Compare 7 and 13. Which one is bigger?
13 is bigger.
7 < 13.
We read it aloud: "seven is less than thirteen". You could also write it as 13 > 7 — "thirteen is greater than seven". Both are correct.
What you will learn here
- The signs < > = — how to read and write them
- Comparing numbers to 20 — practice with all numbers
- Worked examples — step-by-step solutions
- For parents — tips for grown-ups
When you are ready, try Comparing numbers on the "Up to 20" level or sort numbers in Order numbers.