L3 · Comparing and ordering numbers, including decimals (<, >, =)

Learning goal

“I can compare and order whole numbers and decimals by looking at place value, and use the symbols <, > and = to write true comparisons.”

Compare — to decide which of two numbers is greater, or if they are equal.

Greater than (>) — the symbol for "is bigger than": 7 > 5.

Less than (<) — the symbol for "is smaller than": 3 < 8. The open side of the symbol faces the bigger number.

Order — to list numbers from smallest to largest (or largest to smallest).

Worked example

Compare 45,382 and 45,295. Line them up by place. Ten thousands: 4 and 4 - tie. Thousands: 5 and 5 - tie. Hundreds: 3 and 2 - stop! 3 hundreds beats 2 hundreds, so 45,382 > 45,295. You never needed the rest of the digits. Say it plainly: compare from the LEFT, and the first place that differs decides everything.

Check yourself — explain it

We compare from the left because...

Paired problem — example still visible

Compare 9,087 and 9,108 -> thousands tie (9), hundreds: 0 vs 1 -> 9,087 < 9,108

Faded completion — last step is yours

"Compare 234,510 and 234,501: the first different place is the ___ place, so 234,510 ___ 234,501." -> tens; >

Ready to practise?

10 scored questions with a 3-rung hint ladder. Mastery needs 8/10 plus both gate questions.

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