Into Math Kindergarten, Unit 3: Compare Numbers to 10
In this unit, your child learns to compare two groups of objects, by matching them up or by counting, and to tell which has more, fewer, or the same. Then they compare written numbers from 1 to 10 without objects. It builds on knowing the numbers to 10 from the last two units and gets your child ready for addition next.
By Robert “Bobby” BarnettMath teacher, parent, and founder of Bobby’s Math Club
What is my child learning in Unit 3?
- Matching objects one to one, or counting each group, to tell which group has more, fewer, or the same number. Learn more: Which group has more, fewer, or the same
- Saying which of two written numbers from 1 to 10 is greater or less, such as 4 and 7, without counting objects. Learn more: Comparing numbers from 1 to 10
Sample questions to try together
These are real questions from our practice. Tap the speaker to hear one read aloud, or the light bulb for a hint, and talk about the answer together.
Question 1 of 3
You and your friend each have 7 stickers. Who has more?
- You
- You both have the same
- Your friend
How you can help
- Set out cups and plates for a pretend tea party. Put one cup on each plate, then ask whether there are more cups, more plates, or the same.
- Write the numbers 1 to 10 on slips of paper and draw two from a hat. Ask which is greater, then which is less, so your child practices both words.
- Line up two rows of toy cars, one spread out and one close together. Ask which row has more, then match them car to car to check.
Where kids can get stuck
- Thinking a longer, spread-out row has more, even when the shorter row has more objects.
- Pointing to the bigger number when asked which is less, because they are used to hearing greater.
- Comparing far-apart numbers like 2 and 9 easily, but guessing on close ones like 7 and 8.
Practice makes perfect
Bobby's Math Club has practice problems that adapt to your child’s level, each with a detailed explanation and an easy-to-follow video, so your child can build confidence in these skills one step at a time.
Words your child will hear
- compare
- To look at two things to see which is more, less, or the same.
- more
- A greater number of things.
- fewer
- A smaller number of things.
- same
- Exactly as many, with none extra.
- equal
- The same amount.
- greater
- More, or a bigger number.
- less
- Not as many, or a smaller number.
- match
- To pair each object in one group with one in the other.
Ready to build your child’s confidence with comparing numbers to 10?
In Bobby's Math Club, your child practices these skills at just the right level, with a hint when they need one, a clear explanation after every question, and kid-friendly videos. Unlimited practice is free.
Join the club
Written by Robert “Bobby” Barnett
Bobby is an award-winning math teacher, the author of Meet Every Learner’s Needs, and the father of two elementary-school math learners. He uses Bobby’s Math Club with his own kids a few times every week. Learn more or contact Bobby.
Which math standards does Into Math Kindergarten Unit 3 cover?
Into Math Kindergarten Unit 3 covers these math standards. Each one links to what it means, sample questions, and teaching strategies.
For teachers: Unit names and order vary between editions and districts, so your school’s own materials have the exact sequence. Learn how Bobby's Math Club can help your students grow.