Why does my child say −9 is bigger than −2?

They're comparing 9 and 2 and ignoring the signs. That's the most common integer error there is. A number line fixes it: −9 sits farther left, so it's less.

What's actually on the sheet?

Twelve pairs of integers between −15 and 15, each with a circle to fill in with , or =. Negative-negative and mixed-sign pairs are always in the mix, and every print is fresh.

6th grade comparing & ordering integers

6th grade comparing & ordering integers worksheets

Comparing integers worksheets give sixth graders pairs of numbers from −15 to 15; your child writes <, >, or =. The skill is reading integers as positions on the number line, where right means greater, instead of judging by the digits.

Free printable PDF worksheet, aligned to Common Core 6.NS.C.6, 6.NS.C.7.

Each print is a different sheet with its own answer key. You don't need to sign up.

The kind of problems you'll get

Read each direction. Write each answer.

Compare: -10 10
Answer: <
Compare: -22 -21
Answer: <
Least to greatest: (-8, -20, 13, 23)
Answer: (-20, -8, 13, 23)

Every print pulls a fresh set of problems at this level, so a make-up test or a second sibling never gets the same sheet.

What's on a 6th grade sheet

Comparing integers. Read each direction. Write each answer. 18 problems per page.

Every version prints on US Letter or A4, with its answer key after the problems.

How to teach this

Sketch a quick number line from −15 to 15 and keep it next to the sheet for the first few problems. Have your child mark both numbers and say which is farther right before writing the symbol. When negative pairs like −2 and −9 come up, try money: owing 2 dollars leaves you better off than owing 9.

Watch for: Kids decide −9 is greater than −2 because 9 beats 2. With negatives the comparison flips, since −9 sits farther left on the number line. Kids write the symbol backward under pressure. The open side always faces the greater number, whichever side it lands on.

Common questions about 6th grade comparing & ordering integers

Why does my child say −9 is bigger than −2?: They're comparing 9 and 2 and ignoring the signs. That's the most common integer error there is. A number line fixes it: −9 sits farther left, so it's less.
What's actually on the sheet?: Twelve pairs of integers between −15 and 15, each with a circle to fill in with <, >, or =. Negative-negative and mixed-sign pairs are always in the mix, and every print is fresh.

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Aligned to Common Core 6.NS.C.6, 6.NS.C.7. Reviewed by the One more sheet team. Content version 241, updated September 2026.

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