How to Use Greater Than, Less Than, and Equal To Symbols in Grade 1
FAQs on Comparing Numbers Worksheet for Class 1 Maths
1. How do you compare numbers in Grade 1?
In Grade 1, you compare numbers by checking which one is bigger, smaller, or if they are the same value. This is done by looking at the numbers and using special maths symbols like greater than (>), less than (<), or equal to (=). For example, when comparing 9 and 6, we see that 9 is the bigger number, so we write 9 > 6.
2. What is an example of comparing numbers?
A simple example of comparing numbers for Class 1 involves using the symbols >, <, and = to show the relationship between two numbers. Here are some examples you would find in a comparing numbers worksheet:
- Greater Than: 8 > 3 (This means 8 is greater than 3)
- Less Than: 5 < 9 (This means 5 is less than 9)
- Equal To: 7 = 7 (This means 7 is equal to 7)
3. What is the rule for comparing numbers for Class 1?
The main rule for comparing numbers in Class 1 is to identify the value of each number and then decide if the first number is bigger, smaller, or the same as the second. A popular trick is the 'alligator mouth' rule, where the open mouth of the symbol (> or <) always points towards or 'eats' the bigger number.
4. What are the symbols used for comparing numbers?
The three main mathematical symbols used for comparing numbers in first grade are:
- > (Greater Than symbol): This is used when the first number is bigger than the second one (e.g., 12 > 5).
- < (Less Than symbol): This is used when the first number is smaller than the second one (e.g., 4 < 11).
- = (Equal To symbol): This is used when both numbers have the exact same value (e.g., 10 = 10).
5. How can I use this worksheet at home?
You can easily use this comparing numbers worksheet at home by printing the free PDF for offline practice. It serves as an excellent resource for homework, daily revision, or to give your child extra practice in identifying the bigger and smaller number, reinforcing concepts taught in school.
6. Does this include an answer key?
Yes, a complete and easy-to-follow answer key is provided with this Grade 1 maths worksheet. The answer key allows parents and teachers to quickly check the solutions and helps students to self-correct their work, which is a crucial part of the learning process.
7. Is this worksheet printable?
Absolutely. This comparing numbers worksheet for Grade 1 is designed as a downloadable and printable PDF. This format makes it very convenient for parents and teachers to provide children with valuable off-screen practice at home or in the classroom.
8. What age group is it best for?
This worksheet is ideally suited for Class 1 students, who are typically in the age group of 5 to 7 years. The content and activities are designed to align with the learning objectives for this age, including the CBSE Class 1 maths curriculum.
9. How does this worksheet reinforce concept retention?
This worksheet helps reinforce concept retention through repetition and varied practice on a focused skill. By repeatedly asking students to compare two numbers using different formats (like fill in the blanks and circle the correct number), it embeds the logic of number relationships and strengthens their number sense for long-term recall.
10. Can I use this worksheet digitally on a tablet?
Yes, this worksheet can be used digitally on any device that supports PDF files, like a tablet or an iPad. Children can use a stylus or a drawing application to write their answers directly on the screen, offering a modern, paper-free alternative to traditional printing.
11. What skills are built by this activity?
This comparing numbers activity helps Class 1 students build several essential foundational skills. The primary skills developed are:
- Number Sense: Understanding the value and order of numbers.
- Logical Reasoning: Applying rules to determine which number is greater or less.
- Symbol Recognition: Correctly identifying and using the mathematical symbols >, <, and =.
- Basic Problem-Solving: Using comparison as a tool to solve simple mathematical questions.
12. Can I modify or combine this with other worksheets?
Certainly. This worksheet is designed to be flexible and can be effectively combined with other maths activities. For a comprehensive practice session, you can use it alongside an ordering numbers worksheet, a number tracing worksheet, or a counting and numbers worksheet for Class 1.











