Kindergarten · Counting & Cardinality
K.CC.C.7: Compare two written numbers between 1 and 10
K.CC.C.7 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
Compare two numbers between 1 and 10 presented as written numerals.
In plain words
Compare two written numbers between 1 and 10.
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
Is 1 less than 10?
- Yes
- No
- Equal
Where students can get stuck
- Saying 6 is greater than 9 because the 6 is written bigger, or because the two numerals look alike.
- Comparing 3 and 8 easily, but hesitating over numbers close together, such as 7 and 8.
- Pointing to the bigger number when asked which is less, because "greater" is the question they are used to.
Effective teaching strategies
- Write two numerals such as 6 and 9 on cards, have students build each amount with large blocks, and compare the two stacks to see which numeral is greater.
- Use a floor-tape line from 1 to 10 and ask which of two close numbers, such as 7 and 8, is farther along, so students see that farther along means greater.
- Mix questions about which number is greater and which is less, and have students say how they know, so they listen to the word instead of guessing.
Units that teach this standard
Find where K.CC.C.7 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.
enVision Mathematics
Everyday Mathematics
i-Ready Classroom 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 numbers from 1 to 10 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.