To compare two numbers, start with the biggest place. Compare the hundreds first. If they are the same, compare the tens. If the tens are the same too, compare the ones.
The first place where the digits are different decides which number is greater. 482 is greater than 478 because 8 tens is more than 7 tens. We write 482 > 478.
Worked example
Which sign makes this true? 615 ☐ 651
- Both have 6 hundreds, so look at the tens.
- 1 ten is less than 5 tens, so 615 is less than 651.
Answer:615 < 651
Key words
- greater than (>)
- bigger than
- less than (<)
- smaller than
- compare
- decide which is bigger or smaller
Practise this
New questions every time.
Common Core-referenced: 2.NBT.A.4