Comparing Numbers (<, >, = within 20) Practice Problems & Conceptual Mastery
Comparing numbers helps children build essential place value reasoning and relative magnitude understanding. Instead of blind guessing, first graders learn to compare the tens digit first, then look at the ones digit, guided by visual analogies like the Hungry Alligator and base-10 block balances.
🧠 Core Problem-Solving Strategies
🐊 The Hungry Alligator Law
The alligator mouth always opens toward the bigger, juicier number (e.g. 17 > 12). If both sides have the exact same value, the mouth snaps into two equal bars (=).
🔟 Compare Tens First, Then Ones
Always check the tens place first! 1 ten is greater than 0 tens (14 > 8). If the tens are equal (15 vs 18), compare the ones digits (8 > 5, so 18 > 15).
⚖️ The Number Line Distance Rule
On a number line from 0 to 20, numbers further to the right are always greater. Numbers further to the left are always smaller.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
How do you teach greater than and less than to 1st graders?
Use the 'Hungry Alligator' trick: the alligator is always hungry and opens its mouth toward the larger number (e.g., 16 > 9). When both numbers are equal, the mouth shuts flat into the equal sign (=).
How do students compare numbers with the same tens digit?
When comparing two teen numbers (like 14 and 19), both numbers have 1 ten. Students look at the ones place: 4 is less than 9, so 14 < 19.
What is the most common mistake first graders make when comparing numbers?
Looking only at the ones digit! For example, seeing 6 and 16, a child might think 6 is equal or bigger because of the digit 6, forgetting that 16 has a full ten (10 + 6).
Do PanMaths comparing worksheets include answer keys?
Yes! Every printable worksheet includes a Page 2 answer key showing the correct symbol (>, <, =) and place value reasoning for instant self-checking and grading.
Continue Learning & Practicing
Reinforce your understanding with printable worksheets, step-by-step guides, calculators, and speed games: