Cut and Glue: Comparing Quantities Worksheet for Preschoolers
Comparing quantities using the greater than, less than, and equal to symbols is an early step toward formal mathematical notation for children ages 3-5, building on the counting skills they already have. This cut-and-paste worksheet asks children to count two sets of objects, decide which set is larger, smaller, or the same, and then physically select and glue the correct comparison symbol between them. Handling the symbol pieces themselves, rather than writing the symbols freehand, lets younger children engage with this abstract math concept before their fine motor skills are ready for symbol writing.
Part of the pack
Month 9: Early Learning English Math Science | Ages 5-6Curriculum
How to use this worksheet
Have your child count the objects in the first box and say the number aloud, then do the same for the second box. Ask them to decide whether the first amount is greater than, less than, or equal to the second. Have your child cut out the matching symbol from the strip at the bottom of the page and glue it in the space between the two boxes. Repeat this process for each remaining pair on the page.
Materials needed
- Scissors
- Glue
- Pencil
Extension activities
- •Have the child draw their own sets of objects and compare them using the same greater than, less than, and equal to symbols.
- •Use real-life objects, like toys or snacks, to practice comparing quantities before recording the comparison on paper.
- •Play a card game comparing two piles of playing cards or number cards and deciding which is greater.
- •Build two towers of blocks with different heights and compare the quantities of blocks used in each.
Tips for parents and teachers
Encourage the child to count carefully and explain their reasoning when choosing the symbol, since talking through 'this side has more because...' builds real comparative reasoning rather than symbol memorization. Provide assistance as needed, particularly with remembering which way the greater-than and less-than symbols point, since that's a common point of confusion even for slightly older children. A helpful trick is describing the symbol as a hungry alligator mouth that always opens toward the bigger number.
Written by
Hemsweta Jain · Teacher Cheena
MBA and Early Childhood Educator, teaching since 2014 · Founder of RaisoActive, Mumbai
Every RaisoActive worksheet is designed and checked by the founder before publishing.
Published · Last reviewed
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