Compare two numbers
Knowing that 8 is more than 5 without lining up objects shows your child really understands what numbers mean. This is the base for 1st grade, where they compare numbers like 46 and 64 using the signs for greater than, less than, and equal to, and for 2nd grade's numbers up to 1,000. It also matters in everyday choices, such as noticing that a price of 9 is higher than 6.
In this video, your child will learn to compare two numbers from one to ten.
The lesson stops at each question for your child's answer.
Three problems, each a little harder
Each problem is worked step by step. Your child will solve the last one before Bobby shows how.
Example 1
Which is greater: 3 or 7?
Example 2
Which is less: 8 or 5?
Your child's turn
Which is less: 7 or 6?
The three key steps
- 1Show each number with dots.
- 2More dots means greater, and fewer dots means less.
- 3When we count, the greater number comes later.
Mistakes to listen for
- 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.
The lesson shows every step, so your child sees why it works. Read our parent's guide to comparing numbers from 1 to 10 →
Is your child ready to practice what they've learned?
Bobby's Math Club offers unlimited practice for free.
Join the clubMore kid-friendly lessons
More Kindergarten Numbers & Place Value, with questions your child answers along the way.
Questions parents ask
Does my child need an account to watch?
No. You can watch this on any device at any time. If your child would like to practice comparing numbers from 1 to 10, and you'd like parent-friendly reports on your child's progress and growth, you can join Bobby's Math Club for unlimited free practice.
What happens when my child answers a question?
A right answer gets a cheer, and the lesson carries on. If your child isn't sure, they can tap "I don't know yet", and Bobby gives the answer and shows another example. Nothing is scored or stored.
Is this the same lesson that's on YouTube?
Yes. Here, the lesson stops at each question and waits for your child to answer. On YouTube, each question stays on screen for a few seconds, and then the lesson plays on.
Where can I learn more?
There's a short, kid-friendly lesson like this one for every Pre-K to 5th grade math skill, all in our video library. Our parent's guide to comparing numbers from 1 to 10 has more on where kids get stuck and how you can help at home. In the club, your child practices at just the right level, about five minutes a day, and you get parent-friendly reports as they grow. Learn more about how it works →
Practice comparing numbers from 1 to 10
Questions at your child's level, about five minutes a day, on comparing numbers from 1 to 10 and whatever PK-5 skills they need to develop. Unlimited practice, free forever.
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