Comparing and ordering numbers
Compare and order two-digit numbers using the symbols >, =, and <, based on place value understanding
What a learner can do afterwards
- Correctly place > or < between 34 and 43
- Order a set of two-digit numbers from smallest to largest
- Explain a comparison by referring to the tens digit first, then ones
1 · Read
Every two-digit number has a tens digit and a ones digit. When you compare two numbers, always look at the tens digit first. A bigger tens digit means a bigger number.
Compare 34 and 43. Both use the digits 3 and 4, but in different spots. 34 has 3 tens. 43 has 4 tens. 4 tens is more than 3 tens, so 43 is the bigger number. We write it as 34 < 43.
If the tens digits match, look at the ones digit next. 45 and 42 both have 4 tens, so compare the ones: 5 is more than 2, so 45 > 42.
Compare the tens digit first, then the ones digit if the tens match, and use <, >, or = to show which number wins.
More to read
Using Pictures to Explain Number Comparisons
Pictures make big and small clear. Draw 34 as 3 ten-sticks and 4 dots. Draw 43 as 4 ten-sticks and 3 dots. More ten-sticks wins. 4 beats 3, so 43 is bigger. Write it with a sign: 34 < 43. The sign points at the small one. It eats the big one. Say the words too: 34 is less than 43. Draw first. Then sign. Then say.
Explore more
2 · Watch
En anglaisTake it off screen
Where it sits
Learn first
Optional connections
Where this leads
Jobs that lean on this skill. Follow one to see everything it is built on.
14 questions wait behind this lesson, each with its answer explained. Every answer feeds the sky: stars light as they are learned, and dim when it is time to come back.