Understanding Number Comparison
Comparing numbers means deciding which number is greater, which is less, or if they are equal. This helps us understand order and value when working with numbers.
- 45 is less than 90 because 45 comes before 90 when counting.
- 72 is greater than 58 because 72 comes after 58 when counting.
- 100 is equal to 100 because they are the same number.
Think of a number line: numbers to the right are always greater, and numbers to the left are always smaller.
Using Symbols to Compare Numbers
We use special math symbols to compare numbers quickly and clearly.
- 36 < 80 means 36 is less than 80.
- 91 > 60 means 91 is greater than 60.
- 47 = 47 means 47 is equal to 47.
The small point of the symbol always points to the smaller number. The open side faces the larger number.
Comparing Numbers with Place Value
When comparing numbers up to 120, first look at the tens place. If the tens are the same, then compare the ones place.
- 84 and 76: Compare the tens (8 tens vs. 7 tens). Since 8 is greater than 7, 84 is greater than 76.
- 53 and 59: Both have 5 tens. Compare the ones (3 vs. 9). Since 9 is greater, 59 is greater than 53.
- 120 and 120: Both tens and ones are the same, so the numbers are equal.
Always compare the digits from left to right. Start with the largest place value and move to the next if they are the same.
Ordering Numbers
Ordering means arranging numbers from least to greatest or from greatest to least. This helps us see the relationship between groups of numbers.
- Least to greatest: 24, 36, 50, 75.
- Greatest to least: 92, 78, 65, 40.
Line the numbers up and compare place values. Then arrange them in order from smallest to largest or largest to smallest.
Comparing Numbers in Real Life
Comparing numbers helps us make decisions in everyday situations, such as shopping, measuring, and counting.
- Comparing prices: $45 is less than $60, so $45 costs less.
- Counting books: 32 books is greater than 18 books, so there are more books in the first stack.
- Looking at time: 9 minutes is less than 12 minutes, so 9 minutes is shorter.
Look around you and compare numbers in real life—such as ages, distances, or amounts—and decide which is greater, which is less, or if they are equal.