Using Greater Than and Less Than Signs in Math

Purpose of Signs

• Comparison of Numbers: Greater than and less than signs are used to compare sizes of numbers.
• Efficiency: These signs are quicker, tidier, and are recognized globally.

Recognizing the Signs

• Greater Than Sign (>)
  • Indicates a number is larger than another.
  • Example: 4 > 2 (4 is greater than 2).
• Less Than Sign (<)
  • Indicates a number is smaller than another.
  • Example: 5 < 10 (5 is less than 10).

How to Differentiate the Signs

• Reading from Left to Right:
  • Greater Than (>): Two points on the left, one point on the right.
    • Example: 6 > 3
  • Less Than (<): One point on the left, two points on the right.
    • Example: 1 < 2

Steps to Use the Signs

1. Identify the Numbers: Determine which number is larger or smaller.
2. Placement of Points:
   • Place two points beside the larger number.
   • Place one point beside the smaller number.
3. Join the Dots to Form the Sign:
   • Example:
     • 2 < 8 (Two points near 8, one point near 2)
     • 11 > 7 (Two points near 11, one point near 7)

Practice

• Regular practice will help in recognizing and using these signs fluently.
• Apply this logic in exercises given by your teacher to strengthen understanding.

Conclusion

• Using greater than and less than signs will become intuitive with practice.
• Start applying these signs in math exercises to build your mathematical skills.