L3 · Comparing and ordering positive and negative numbers

Learning goal

“I can compare any two positive or negative numbers and put a set of them in order, using the number line: further right means greater, and for two negatives, the one closer to zero is greater.”

Greater than (>) — the number further right on the number line: 2 > -5.

Less than (<) — the number further left on the number line: -5 < 2. The symbol always points at the smaller number.

Order — listing numbers from least to greatest (smallest first) or greatest to least. On the line, least to greatest is left to right.

Worked example

Compare -3 and 2; compare -5 and 0. Step 1: Plot both numbers. On the line, the number further RIGHT is greater. Step 2: 2 sits to the right of -3, so 2 > -3. Rule that never fails: every positive number is greater than every negative number. Step 3: 0 sits to the right of -5, so 0 > -5. Zero is greater than every negative and less than every positive. Model both ways, side by side: the number line with the two points and a "greater" arrow, AND zero-pair counters under the line positions to show -3 and -5 on the owing side. Position decides. Right beats left, always.

Check yourself — explain it

Why is -1 greater than -100?

Paired problem — example still visible

Compare: -7 ___ 1 -> -7 < 1

Faded completion — last step is yours

"-4 is to the ___ of 0, so -4 ___ 0." -> left; <

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

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