Comparing and Ordering Rational Numbers A PowerPoint for Ms Purcell’s 6th Grade. MCC6.NS.7.a MCC6.NS.7.b MCC6.NS.7.d

All rational numbers can be located on a number line 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

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

Which symbol makes this sentence true? Use >, <, or = Example 3: Which symbol makes this sentence true? Use >, <, or = 15.391 15.46 Step 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.