Using <, >, and = to compare numbers for Grade 2

📚 Understanding Comparison Symbols

In math, we use special symbols to compare numbers. These symbols help us understand if one number is bigger, smaller, or the same as another number. The symbols we'll learn about are less than (<), greater than (>), and equal to (=).

➕ Less Than (<)

The 'less than' symbol (<) means that the first number is smaller than the second number. Imagine a hungry alligator; it always wants to eat the bigger number! So, the small end of the symbol points to the smaller number.

• 🌱Definition: Indicates that one number has a lower value than another.
• 💡Example: $5 < 10$ (5 is less than 10).
• ✍️How to read it: "5 is less than 10."

➖ Greater Than (>)

The 'greater than' symbol (>) means the first number is bigger than the second number. Remember our hungry alligator? The wide, open mouth points towards the larger number.

• 🌱Definition: Indicates that one number has a higher value than another.
• 💡Example: $12 > 7$ (12 is greater than 7).
• ✍️How to read it: "12 is greater than 7."

➗ Equal To (=)

The 'equal to' symbol (=) means that the two numbers are exactly the same.

• 🌱Definition: Indicates that two numbers have the same value.
• 💡Example: $8 = 8$ (8 is equal to 8).
• ✍️How to read it: "8 is equal to 8."

🧮 Comparison Table

🔑 Key Takeaways

• ✔️ Less Than (<): The number on the left is smaller. Example: $3 < 7$.
• ✔️ Greater Than (>): The number on the left is bigger. Example: $11 > 1$.
• ✔️ Equal To (=): The numbers are the same. Example: $9 = 9$.