Compare expressions
To compare two expressions, work out each side first and then compare the results: 23 + 8 = 31 and 40 − 9 = 31, so the sign is =. This shows children that the equal sign means “the same value”, not “the answer comes next”.
How to solve this
- To compare two expressions, calculate each side first, then insert the correct symbol: <, >, or =.
- Do not try to guess — always work out both values completely before comparing.
- Check by swapping the symbol: if 3 + 5 > 7, then 7 < 3 + 5 must also be true.
Examples
23 + 8 __ 40 - 9
=
56 - 7 __ 46
>
Practice problems with answers
Solve these problems on paper or out loud, then check the answer key. The online practice and the printable worksheet give a new set every time.
- 50 ___ 68 + 27
- 15 + 45 ___ 16 − 8
- 96 ___ 24
- 45 + 16 ___ 61
- 67 ___ 54
- 72 ___ 42
- 47 − 42 ___ 12 + 20
- 39 + 35 ___ 57
Show answers
- <
- >
- >
- =
- >
- >
- <
- >