3
The equal sign
Discover Mathematics: Chapter 3
GoalUse the equal sign, and choose the right sign (>, < or =) for two numbers up to 15.
New words
equal sign · two lines of the same lengthequal · the same amountchoose · pick the right one
Explanation
The equal sign = has two lines of the same length. It means both sides are the same. We read 8 = 8 as: eight is equal to eight. To compare two numbers, ask: is one greater, is one less, or are they the same? Then pick the sign: >, < or =. If you are not sure, count some objects or say the counting order.
Worked examples
10 sheep and 10 goats. The groups are the same, so 10 = 10.
Compare 13 eggs and 15 eggs. Thirteen is less, so 13 < 15.
One number can be compared three ways: 12 = 12, 12 > 11 and 12 < 13.
Class activity
Sign hunt. Write a pair of numbers on each of ten pieces of paper, for example 8 and 8, or 14 and 9. Mix them up. The child picks a paper, draws >, < or = between the two numbers and says the whole sentence aloud.
Practice
1
Which sign fits: 10 __ 10?
=
2
Which sign fits: 7 __ 12?
<
3
Which sign fits: 15 __ 9?
>
4
Write a sign to make it true: 11 __ 11.
=
5
Say a number that is greater than 12 and less than 15.
13 or 14