The idea, step by step
Further right means greater
Values increase to the right on a number line. Every positive integer is greater than zero, and zero is greater than every negative integer.
Among negative numbers, the value nearer zero is greater. −2 is to the right of −8, even though the digit 8 is larger than the digit 2.
Compare the quantity asked for
For temperatures, a greater number is warmer. For heights, a greater number is higher. “Coldest” asks for the least temperature; “warmest” asks for the greatest.
Use < for less than and > for greater than. Read the full comparison aloud after writing it to check that its meaning matches the context.
A common trap
−9 is greater than −3 because 9 is greater than 3.
Instead: Compare signed positions: −9 lies further left, so −9<−3.
See the thinking
Worked example 1
Order −4, 3, 0, −1 and 2 from least to greatest.
- Put the negative values first, starting with the one further left.
- Then put zero, followed by positive values in increasing order.
Worked example 2
Which is warmer: −6°C or −2°C?
- Both values are below zero.
- −2 is closer to zero and to the right of −6.
Check your understanding
Complete −5 __ −1 with < or >.
Show answer
−5<−1.
−5 lies further left than −1.
Your turn
6 questions · 9 marks · Work at your own pace.
Read the questions online
- Which is greater: −7 or −2?1 mark
- Order 4, −3, 1, −8 and 0 from least to greatest.2 marks
- Complete −4 __ 2 with < or >.1 mark
- Morning temperatures are −1°C, −5°C and 2°C. Which is coldest?1 mark
- Write all integers greater than −3 and less than 2.2 marks
- Explain why −10<−1.2 marks
Read the worked solutions
Equivalent correct methods earn the corresponding marks. Include units where asked.
- Which is greater: −7 or −2?1 mark
It lies to the right of −7.
−2. - Order 4, −3, 1, −8 and 0 from least to greatest.2 marks
Use left-to-right positions.
−8, −3, 0, 1, 4. - Complete −4 __ 2 with < or >.1 mark
Any negative number is less than any positive number.
−4<2. - Morning temperatures are −1°C, −5°C and 2°C. Which is coldest?1 mark
It is the least temperature.
−5°C. - Write all integers greater than −3 and less than 2.2 marks
Do not include the endpoints.
−2, −1, 0, 1. - Explain why −10<−1.2 marks
Compare positions, not just digits.
−10 is further left: ten units below zero rather than one.
Curriculum reference & lesson scope
Australian Curriculum v9 and SA Curriculum Mathematics
Positive/negative contexts; ordering; number lines; connection to coordinates.
Official curriculum source ↗