Comparing Rational Numbers

A number that can be made by dividing two integers (an integer is a positive or negative whole number, like -4, 0, 2, etc.).

Rational numbers include integers, fractions, and most decimals (finite or repeating).

Integers (ex: $-17,0,8$ )

Positive & Negative Fractions or Decimals:                                     (ex: $-\frac{1}{2},\ -0.5,\ \frac{4}{3},\ 12.75$ )

We compare rational numbers by their order. For example: 1 is less than 3, -10 is less than 2, etc.

We can see the order of positive and negative numbers on a number line.

A number is always LESS THAN the number to its RIGHT on the number line.

The symbol " $<$ " means LESS THAN

For example,  $-4<3$   is read as "-4 is less than 3", because -4 is to the LEFT of 3 on the number line.

The symbol " $>$ " means GREATER THAN

For example,  $5>-7$ is read as "5 is greater than -7" 

When remembering which way the inequality symbol goes, pretend it is an alligator.

The alligator "eats" the bigger value

Example: In  $1<3$  , the alligator "eats" the bigger number 3