Greater Than Less Than: Penguin Theme

Greater Than Less Than: Penguin Theme gives kindergarten and first grade kids hands-on practice comparing numbers with a penguin theme.

Kids pick two number cards, place them on the greater than or less than mat and read the number sentence out loud, like “15 is greater than 9.”

The mats show the symbol, so kids can see which way it points as they say the comparison.

How to Use Greater Than Less Than: Penguin Theme

1. Print, laminate and cut apart the mats and number cards.
2. Kids draw two number cards.
3. Kids decide which number is greater.
4. Kids place the cards on the greater than or less than mat.
5. Kids write the number sentence on the recording sheet.

Partner Game: Each partner draws a card; the greater number keeps both cards.

Small Group: Build each number with blocks before comparing.

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Easy Ways to Differentiate These Comparing Mats

Every group has a mix of number sense skills. These simple changes keep the activity familiar while meeting each child where they are.

For Children Who Need More Support:

• Use numbers to 10 first.
• Build each number with blocks.
• Use a number line.
• Say the sentence together.

For On-Level Practice:

• Compare 10 pairs.
• Write each number sentence.
• Read each sentence out loud.
• Check with a partner.

For an Extra Challenge:

• Compare three numbers.
• Order all the cards from least to greatest.
• Make the greatest number you can.
• Explain how you decided.

For Speech, OT, ELL or Special Education Support:

• Talk through each step together and give plenty of wait time.
• Accept pointing, gestures, AAC or any communication method the child already uses.
• Use base ten blocks to build each number.
• Use a number line to show which number is greater.

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Greater Than Less Than: Penguin Theme Is Perfect For:

• Kindergarten
• First grade
• Winter themes
• Math centers
• Small-group instruction
• Intervention
• Special education
• ELL and multilingual learners
• Homeschool

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