Comparing and Ordering Integers
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Examples, solutions, videos, worksheets, stories and songs to help Grade 7 students learn how to compare and order integers using the number line.
Comparing and ordering integers is a fundamental skill in mathematics. It involves determining which of two or more integers is greater than, less than, or equal to another, and arranging a set of integers in a specific order (either ascending from smallest to largest, or descending from largest to smallest).
The following figure shows how to compare integers using the number line and using rules. Scroll down the page for examples and solutions.
Integer Worksheets
Practice your skills with the following integer worksheets:
Printable & Online Integer Worksheets
Integers can be compared and ordered using their positions on the number line or by understanding their values.
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Using the Number Line:
The number line is the most intuitive way to compare and order integers.
Comparison:
An integer to the right on the number line is greater than any integer to its left.
An integer to the left on the number line is less than any integer to its right.
Ordering:
To order a set of integers, place them on the number line. The order from left to right is ascending order, and the order from right to left is descending order. -
Using Rules Based on Signs and Magnitude:
While the number line is great for visualization, here are some rules you can apply directly:
Positive vs. Negative: Any positive integer is always greater than any negative integer. Zero is also greater than any negative integer. Example: 5 > -10, 1 > -1, 0 > -7.
Comparing Positive Integers: Compare them just like you compare whole numbers. The integer with the larger magnitude is greater. Example: 8 > 3, 15 < 20.
Comparing Negative Integers: This is where it can be a bit counterintuitive. The negative integer with the smaller magnitude (closer to zero) is greater. Think of it as being “less in debt.” Example: -2 > -5, -10 < -1
Symbols Used for Comparison:
means “greater than”
< means “less than”
= means “equal to”
≥ means “greater than or equal to”
≤ means “less than or equal to”
Comparing and locating integers
In this video, we can compare and order integers by first locating them on the number line. The numbers on the right of the number line is greater than the numbers on the left of the number line.
Comparing and Ordering Integers
In this video, students learn to compare integers by graphing the integers on a number line. The integer to the left on the number line is always less than the integer to the right. Since negative integers are to the left on a number line, and positive integers are to the right, a negative integer is always less than a positive integer.
Comparing Integers Using Inequalities
This video provides examples of comparing integers using inequality symbols by plotting the integers on the number line.
Compare and Order Integers on a number line
This video demonstrates how to compare and order integers using a number line.
Compare and Order Integers
This video shows how to compare and order integers using a number line.
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