CCSS.Math.Content.1.NBT.B.3
The standard
Compare two two-digit numbers based on meanings of the tens and ones digits, recording the results of comparisons with the symbols >, =, and <.
Common Core State Standards for Mathematics · Number and Operations in Base Ten
What this standard means
Students need to compare two two-digit numbers by looking at tens first, then ones if the tens are the same. They should explain their thinking with place value words, not just say which number is bigger. They also need to write the comparison using >, =, or < correctly.
Mastery looks like a student saying, “47 is greater than 39 because 4 tens is more than 3 tens,” or “62 is less than 65 because the tens match and 2 ones is less than 5 ones.” Students often mix up the symbols or compare only the ones digit.
Ways to teach it
- Use base-ten blocks to build 34 and 43, then have students point to the larger number and place the correct symbol card between them.
- Ask students to write: “Which is greater, 58 or 52? Explain using tens and ones.”
- Show 76 __ 67 on a mini whiteboard and have students fill in the symbol, then say their reason to a partner.
- Compare two prices under one dollar, like 45 cents and 54 cents, and ask which item costs more and why.
Plan a lesson for CCSS.Math.Content.1.NBT.B.3
Generate a complete lesson plan aligned to this standard, with objectives, activities, and materials. Free, no account needed.
Related standards
- CCSS.Math.Content.5.NBT.A.3b
Compare two decimals to thousandths based on meanings of the digits in each place, using >, =, and < symbols to record the results of comparisons.
- CCSS.Math.Content.K.CC.C.7
Compare two numbers between 1 and 10 presented as written numerals.
- CCSS.Math.Content.4.NBT.A.2
Read and write multi-digit whole numbers using base-ten numerals, number names, and expanded form. Compare two multi-digit numbers based on meanings of the digi...
- CCSS.Math.Content.2.NBT.A.4
Compare two three-digit numbers based on meanings of the hundreds, tens, and ones digits, using >, =, and < symbols to record the results of comparisons.