Comparing two-digit numbers with >, =, and <
In 1st grade, children learn to compare two-digit numbers by checking the tens before the ones and recording the result with >, =, or <.
By Robert “Bobby” BarnettMath teacher, parent, and founder of Bobby’s Math Club
Try these with your child
These are real questions from our 1st grade 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
Compare 20 and 19. Which is less?
- 20
- 19
- Equal
Why this matters
Being able to say which number is bigger, and why, gives your child a way to judge whether an answer makes sense, and it is the start of putting numbers in order. In 2nd grade the same reasoning compares three-digit numbers by looking at the hundreds first, and in 4th and 5th grade it extends to decimals. Everyday choices use it too, like deciding which of two prices is lower.
Where kids can get stuck
- Looking at the ones digit first, deciding 29 is bigger than 41 because 9 is bigger than 1.
- Mixing up the > and < symbols, writing 35 > 53 when they mean that 53 is bigger.
- Comparing correctly out loud but writing the numbers in the wrong order, so the written statement says the opposite.
How you can help
- Compare prices at the grocery store, such as a 45-cent item and a 54-cent item, and ask which costs more and how your child knows. Point to the tens digit.
- Play a card game with two cards each to make two-digit numbers. Each player builds a number, and the bigger number wins the round. Talk about which digit decided it.
- Build two numbers with bundles of ten and loose items, like 38 and 41, and compare them side by side so your child can see that more bundles means more.
The kid-friendly video below explains it in a few minutes, and Bobby's Math Club offers free practice that grows with your child.
Kid-friendly explanation
Questions parents ask
Why is my child comparing numbers using tens and ones?
Comparing by tens first shows your child why one number is greater. Since 1 ten is worth more than up to 9 ones, the tens digit decides most comparisons. This builds real understanding of place value instead of a rule that is easy to apply incorrectly, and it carries forward to comparing larger numbers.
How can I help my child remember which way the symbol goes?
Many teachers describe the symbol as an open mouth that faces the bigger number, or point out that the wide side is next to the larger number and the point is next to the smaller one. Reading the statement aloud, such as "23 is less than 32," also helps your child check that it makes sense.
What if my child can tell which number is bigger but not explain why?
That is a good start. Ask your child to show both numbers with bundles of ten or dimes and pennies. Seeing 5 bundles next to 4 bundles makes the reason visible. Over time, encourage them to say it in words, such as "53 has more tens than 47."
Make learning math fun
Bobby's Math Club turns 1st grade math practice into something fun to do together.
- Unlimited free practice
- A few minutes a day, at just the right level
- Hints when they are stuck, and a celebration when it clicks
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.
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Join the clubNote for teachers: This skill is covered by Common Core math standard 1.NBT.B.3: “Compare two two-digit numbers based on meanings of the tens and ones digits, recording the results of comparisons with the symbols >, =, and <.” Learn how Bobby's Math Club can help your students grow. (Common Core 1.NBT.3)