Greater Than and Less Than| Free Worksheets

The concept of greater than, less than, or equal to a number value (also known as symbols of inequality) may seem easy and simple, but it can be quite challenging, especially if you are introducing it the first time to kindergarten and first graders. If you’re a homeschooling parent or a new teacher, don’t fret. Here are some strategies you can use to make sure that your student completely comprehend the concept.

How to Teach Greater Than, Less Than or Equal To: Strategies to Teaching Kindergarten and Grade 1 Students

1. Use Real Objects

Kindergarten and grade 1 students need concrete examples to fully grasp a concept. Use actual objects to show the concept of equality and inequality. Teaching props are the key here. You can use boxes with Lego blocks, baskets, toys, balls, magnetic buttons and board, laminated pictures, and even their pencils and crayons. Allow the learners to manipulate these objects. They learn more by doing.

2. Relate to Real-Life

Many schools are adopting authentic activities. Allow your learners to see how they can use the concept of comparing numbers to real-life situations, like comparing prices of common school materials and toys, weight of common objects, height, and many others.

One great authentic activity that kindergarten and first graders can do is weighing similar objects in a balance beam or a weighing scale, and identifying which objects are heavier. You can guide them in recording the numbers and putting the correct symbols later on.

3. Integrate

You can relate the lesson on comparing numbers to other subject areas. Have you read your class a story recently? You can retell your class’ favorite stories and insert the concept as you narrate. Did you talk about plants and animals during your Science class? Use it as some of your examples.

4. Introduce Abstract Concepts

Though in Kindergarten, it may be okay to keep the lesson in the concrete concept; first graders need to slowly learn abstract concepts to prepare for higher maths. They need to be able to tell at a glance that 23 is less than 32 and that 41 is greater than 40 without real examples and illustrations.

5. Practice with Worksheets to Achieve Mastery

Constant practice leads to mastery. Giving the students worksheets to practice on help solidify the concept they learned.