Comparing and Ordering Rational Numbers

A PowerPoint for Ms Purcell’s 6th Grade.

MCC6.NS.7.a MCC6.NS.7.bMCC6.NS.7.d

All rational numbers can be located on a number line. We can use a number line to compare and order rational numbers.

To compare rational numbers, we use the > (greater than) and < (less than) or = (equal to) symbols.

The expression a > b means that a is to the right

of b on the number line.The expression a < b means that a is the left of b

on the number line.

Example 1:

Order the following numbers from greatest to least. Plot them on the number line.

7, -3, 5, -5, 10, -10, 4, 0

Example 2:

Which symbol makes this sentence true? Use >, <, or =3 ½ 3 ¼

Step 1: Compare the whole-number parts. Step 2: Find a common denominator for the

fraction parts. Step 3: Rewrite the fractions with a common

denominator.Step 4: Compare the fractions.

Example 3:

Which symbol makes this sentence true? Use >, <, or =15.391 15.46Step 1: Align the numbers on the decimal point.

Compare from left to right. (Remember the number of decimal places does not affect whether a decimal is greater or less than another decimal.

Step 2: Compare the tens place. Step 3: Compare the ones place.Step 4: Compare the tenths.