Montana Math MT.2.NBT.4

Math2nd GradeNumber and Operations in Base Ten

The Standard

Compare two three-digit numbers using >, =, and < symbols.

2026 Montana Mathematics Content Standards

Teacher's field guide

What Students Need to Do: Students check the hundreds first, then the tens and ones if needed. They use place value to decide which number is larger or whether the numbers match.
What Mastery Looks Like: A student compares 408 and 480 by noticing that the hundreds match and the tens do not. They write 408 < 480 and use = for matching numbers.
Common Misconceptions: Some students compare only the last digit, so they think 409 is greater than 490. Others reverse < and > or think = means they must add the numbers.
How to Assess It: On an exit ticket, have students fill in 408 __ 480 and 615 __ 615, then explain how they decided the first comparison.

Lesson moves

Have pairs build 342 and 324 with base-ten blocks, then place the correct symbol between their models.
Write 507 and 570 on the board and ask, “Which place decides the comparison? How do you know?”
Give pairs cards showing 430, 403, and 430; have them make two comparisons, including one with =.
Show reading logs of 326 and 362 pages, then have students write a comparison and name the larger total.

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