Year 1 · Maths
Compare numbers
Comparing two numbers up to 20 with the signs < (less than), > (more than) and = (equal to).
New sheets start on target. You can also print an easier one or a harder one.
What your child will see
The whole sheet as it prints. Every new sheet has different numbers.
Ring <, = or > to make each one true.
Two minutes at home
- Ask
- Which number is bigger? Which way does the sign open?
- Play
- Each pick a number card. Say "16 is more than 12" or "less than", then swap.
Common mistakes and how to help
Used < for > or the other way round: the signs may still be muddled, even if they know which number is bigger.
Try this: The open side of the sign faces the bigger number, like a mouth eating the bigger snack. Draw it together.
Said a number like 8 is more than 13: they may be comparing the last digits (8 and 3) and missing the ten in 13.
Try this: Find both numbers on a number track. The one further along is bigger: 13 is a whole ten and 3 more.
Ringed < or > when the numbers are the same: they may not think = is an answer.
Try this: Write two numbers that are the same and ask "which is bigger?" Talk about "equal to" being an answer.
Ringed = when one number is bigger: the numbers may look alike, as 16 and 19.
Try this: Point to both numbers on a number track and count the steps between them.
Curriculum links
Identify and represent numbers using objects and pictorial representations including the number line, and use the language of: equal to, more than, less than (fewer), most, least.
National curriculum in England: mathematics programmes of study · Year 1 Mathematics: Number and place value
Department for Education. Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. Department for Education. Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.