2nd Grade · Number & Operations in Base Ten
2.NBT.A.4: Compare two three-digit numbers
2.NBT.A.4 is a 2nd grade Common Core math standard in Number & Operations in Base Ten. Here’s what it really covers, and how you can help your students learn it.
By Robert “Bobby” BarnettMath teacher, parent, and founder of Bobby’s Math Club
The standard
Compare two three-digit numbers based on meanings of the hundreds, tens, and ones digits, using >, =, and < symbols to record the results of comparisons.
In plain words
Compare two three-digit numbers.
Sample questions from student practice
These questions from Bobby's Math Club are the kinds of questions your students will see. You can try answering them to see what a student might see.
Question 1 of 3
Which number is greater: 452 or 425?
- They are equal
- 452
- 425
Where students can get stuck
- Comparing digits from the right, deciding 298 is greater than 301 because 8 ones beats 1 one.
- Assuming a number with bigger digits is bigger, such as believing 199 is more than 210.
- Mixing up the > and < symbols, so the written statement says the opposite of what they meant.
Effective teaching strategies
- Have students underline the first place, starting from the left, where two numbers differ, such as the hundreds in 298 and 301, and say which digit is greater.
- Build both numbers with base-ten blocks side by side and ask which has more flats, so students see that 199 is less than 210 even though it has a 9.
- Ask students to read each comparison aloud as a sentence, such as 298 < 301 as “298 is less than 301,” and to check that the open side of the symbol faces the greater number.
Units that teach this standard
Find where 2.NBT.A.4 lands in the program you teach. Each unit has a guide written for families. Unit names and order vary between editions and districts, so your school’s own materials have the exact sequence.
Bridges in Mathematics
enVision Mathematics
Eureka Math²
i-Ready Classroom Mathematics
Illustrative Mathematics
Reveal Math
Don’t see your curriculum? Contact Bobby and we’ll see if we can help!
Share it with families
Families can read Comparing three-digit numbers with >, =, and < for a plain-language look at this skill, with three questions to try together and ideas for helping at home.
Help every student practice place value at home
In Bobby's Math Club, students practice 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 for every family.
See how it works for teachers
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.