Comparing Numbers with More and Less Symbols

Dreambox Learning has some great interactive math activities that can be used on your Smartboard.  Dreambox Learning is a subscription based service, but right now you can try some of their activities including Comparing Numbers with More and Less Symbols. 

Using the hungry alligator metaphor and starting with smaller numbers, students focus on using the symbols correctly. Then, First graders focus on comparing numbers up to 100, but as they advance they can compare higher numbers. Then students are challenged to understand the values of numerals based on their place in the number. (For example, 587 and 578.) Eventually the alligator is removed and only the symbols remain.