Comparing and Ordering Numbers

In Year 1, children learn to compare two numbers using the language "greater than", "less than" and "equal to". They use the symbols > (greater than), < (less than) and = (equal to) to record comparisons.

Children order sets of numbers from smallest to largest and largest to smallest. They position numbers on a number line and identify numbers that come between two given values.

This topic builds on counting and place value knowledge. Children need to understand that 14 is greater than 9 because 14 has 1 ten and 4 ones, while 9 has no tens and 9 ones.

Comparing and ordering develops number sense -- the intuitive understanding of how numbers relate to each other. Children with strong number sense can estimate, approximate and check whether their answers are reasonable.

The symbols >, < and = appear throughout maths education and into algebra. Getting comfortable with them early prevents confusion later on.

1. 1

   Use the 'crocodile mouth' trick: the crocodile always eats the bigger number (the open side faces the larger number).

2. 2

   Compare real quantities: 'You have 7 grapes and I have 5 -- who has more?'

3. 3

   Practise ordering three or four numbers: 'Put 8, 3, 15, 1 in order from smallest to biggest.'

4. 4

   Use a number line to show which numbers come first (smaller) and which come later (larger).

5. 5

   Play 'Higher or Lower' with playing cards.

6. 6

   Connect to place value: 'Why is 12 greater than 9? Because 12 has a ten and 9 doesn't.'