The symbols < and > tell us which number is bigger and which is smaller!
When we compare two numbers, we use special symbols. The symbol > means "greater than" and < means "less than." The open side of the symbol always faces the BIGGER number â like a hungry mouth trying to eat the larger amount!
> means GREATER THAN (bigger). < means LESS THAN (smaller). The open mouth always faces the bigger number!
Imagine an alligator đ who always eats the BIGGER number. 45 > 32 (45 is greater than 32) 18 < 71 (18 is less than 71) 33 = 33 (equal â same on both sides) The alligator's mouth opens toward the bigger meal!
Greater Than (>)
Less Than (<)
Check the tens digit first. If tens are equal, compare the ones digit!
How to compare two 2-digit numbers:
Which symbol goes between 43 ___ 34?
Remember This!
Memory trick: the POINT of < always aims at the SMALLER number. In 5 < 8, the point is toward 5 (the smaller one).