Greater Than and Less Than Symbols

In mathematics, we often need to compare numbers to understand their relationships. Two of the most commonly used symbols for comparing numbers are the greater than (>) and less than (<) symbols. Let’s dive into what these symbols mean and how we use them with some fun examples and practice questions.

What Do Greater Than and Less Than Symbols Mean?

The greater than (>) symbol is used when one number is larger than another number. The less than (<) symbol is used when one number is smaller than another number.

Example:

  • 5 > 3: This means 5 is greater than 3.

  • 2 < 4: This means 2 is less than 4.

How to Remember the Symbols

A simple way to remember these symbols is to think of them as an open mouth of a hungry alligator. The alligator always wants to eat the bigger number, so the open side of the symbol faces the larger number.

Tip:

  • Greater than (>): The open mouth faces the larger number.

  • Less than (<): The open mouth faces the smaller number.

Visual Examples

Imagine you have a bowl of apples:

  • If you have 7 apples and your friend has 4 apples, you can say 7 > 4 (you have more apples).

  • If you have 3 apples and your friend has 5 apples, you can say 3 < 5 (you have fewer apples).

Practice Questions

Let's practice using these symbols with some simple questions. Try to fill in the correct symbol (> or <):

  1. 9 ___ 6

  2. 2 ___ 8

  3. 10 ___ 15

  4. 4 ___ 4 (Trick question: You can use the equals sign = here)

Answers:

  1. 9 > 6

  2. 2 < 8

  3. 10 < 15

  4. 4 = 4

Fun Fact: Using Symbols in Real Life

You can use these symbols in real life to compare things like:

  • Heights: "My brother is taller than me" (6 feet > 5 feet)

  • Ages: "I am younger than my sister" (10 years < 12 years)

  • Scores: "Our team scored more points" (30 points > 25 points)

Conclusion

Understanding and using greater than (>) and less than (<) symbols is a fundamental skill in math that helps us compare numbers and quantities. By practicing with examples and questions, you can easily master these symbols and apply them in your everyday life.

Additional Practice

Try comparing these numbers on your own:

  • 12 ___ 7

  • 5 ___ 9

  • 15 ___ 10

  • 3 ___ 3

Encouragement:

Remember, practice makes perfect! Keep using these symbols in different situations to become confident in comparing numbers.


This guide provides clear explanations, examples, and practice questions to help primary school students understand and use the greater than and less than symbols effectively.

 

 

Popular Calculators