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
The lesson
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.
Watch it
Where it sits
Where this leads
Jobs that lean on this skill. Follow one to see everything it is built on.
8 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.