Math Lesson Plan · Grades 1–4

Greater Than Less Than Lesson

Teach students to compare numbers using the greater than (>) and less than (<) symbols. The lesson uses an open-mouth memory trick: the open part always faces the bigger number. Includes a 25-problem comparison worksheet and 5 true/false comprehension questions. Answer key included.

Lesson Overview

Greater Than and Less Than

When comparing two numbers, we use symbols to show which is larger. The greater than symbol (>) and less than symbol (<) both point toward the smaller number — the open part faces the larger number. A helpful memory trick: imagine the symbol is a mouth that always eats the bigger number. You can even draw teeth on the symbol to remember which way it opens.

The lesson covers comparing any two numbers from zero to infinity, including the concept of infinity itself. The companion worksheet gives students 25 number comparison problems and 5 true/false questions about what they’ve learned. The answer key covers both sections.

How to Use This Lesson

1. Read the lesson on pages 1 through 3 as a class. Demonstrate the greater-than and less-than symbols with examples. Practice the open-mouth trick.

2. Complete the 25 comparison problems on page 4. Students write < or > between each pair of numbers.

3. Complete the 5 true/false questions on page 5. Review all answers using the key on page 6.

Printable Resource

A classroom-ready PDF with everything in one printable resource.

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