Recall that on a number line the number 1 is to the left of the number 2, which indicates that 1 < 2.

Recall that on a number line the number 3 is to the right of the number 2, which indicates that 3 > 2 (or 2 < 3).

It can be concluded that numbers get SMALLER as you move LEFT on the number line.

It can also be concluded that numbers get LARGER as you move RIGHT on the number line.

These conclusions are also true when extended to negative numbers.

The number -3 is to the left of the number -2, which indicates that -3 < -2.

The number -1 is to the right of the number -2, which indicates that -1 > -2 (or -2 < -1).