Teacher’s Brain

Hands-On Activities to Compare Numbers

Suggestions for Comparing Numbers

The best way to teach students how to compare numbers is to provide hands-on learning opportunities for them to get engaged while practicing math skills. Using games with other students provided activities for my students to learn about greater than, less than, and equal to math concepts. Here are some simple ways to get students to compare numbers.

1.FLIP IT – Using playing cards (pull out the Jacks, Kings, Queens and Aces), have students flip over one card each.  The person with the greatest number gets a point. When the cards are gone, count the points.  The one with the most points wins.

2. Greatest Domino – Use Dominoes to have each student flip the domino over to see who has the greatest number.  The person with the most points after 20 times, wins.

3. CUPS – Write numbers on cups. (one number on each cup) Stack the cups. Each child pulls a cup off the stack.  Put the cups in order from least to greatest.  Give a point to the student with he greatest number.

4. Rock It! – Have students collect rocks or leaves outside.  They bring in theirs and compare them to other students, or groups.  Discuss who has more, less or equal amounts.

5. Number Whisper – Have partners think of a secret number.  They write it down (keeping it hidden). Then, give clues.  For example, mine is greater than one, but less than 10.  They keep giving clues until the number is solved.  Students switch roles.

Compare Numbers Activities