Kindergarten · Counting & Cardinality
K.CC.C.6: Identify greater than, less than, or equal to groups
K.CC.C.6 is a kindergarten Common Core math standard in Counting & Cardinality. 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
Identify whether the number of objects in one group is greater than, less than, or equal to the number of objects in another group, e.g., by using matching and counting strategies.
In plain words
Identify greater than, less than, or equal to groups.
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
You and your friend each have 7 stickers. Who has more?
- You
- You both have the same
- Your friend
Where students can get stuck
- Judging by length, so a long row of 6 pebbles seems to have more than a tight row of 8.
- Counting both groups correctly, getting 7 and 9, then naming the wrong group as greater.
- Treating "greater" as physically bigger, so 4 large toys seem greater than 6 small ones.
Effective teaching strategies
- Match two groups one to one, such as a block beside each toy car, and ask whether one group has extras left over or both ended together.
- Space out 6 blocks in a long row and bunch 8 blocks in a tight row, and have students count both before deciding which group has more, so length does not fool them.
- Have students say each total, such as 7 and 9, and then ask which number comes later when counting, since that group has more.
Units that teach this standard
Find where K.CC.C.6 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
Everyday Mathematics
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 Which group has more, fewer, or the same for a plain-language look at this skill, with three questions to try together and ideas for helping at home.
Help every student practice counting 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.