Which number has the smaller number? - 6 or - 17? Explain your answer.

I know it is - 17 but how do I explain that?

Because is more negative

An easy way to explain that - 17 is smaller than - 6 is by drawing a number line. On the number line, label 0 and place that in the middle. On the left side of your number line, label the negative numbers including - 6 and - 17. Lastly, draw an arrow from - 17 to - 6.