Comparing Numbers Lessons for Elementary Students

As an elementary teacher, you probably teach all things place value towards the beginning of the school year. Understanding numbers, their value, and how to use them is a fundamental skill that students will use for the remainder of their year (and lives!). One of those very important skills is comparing numbers. Being able to understand the relationship numbers is a crucial foundation that we build upon before learning other math concepts.

Let’s explore some effective strategies that you can use when teaching your students how to understand and compare numbers. These teaching tips will also include to to ENGAGE students, so that they don’t even realize they are learning!

Comparing Numbers Mini-Lesson

First of all, do you see the dice below?!  It’s HUGE, 20-sided, and PLUSH!  It’s like a stuffed animal for math teachers… heavenly!  You can find the best priced one I’ve seen HERE.  Or, you can find it on Amazon HERE!  I’m seriously obsessed with it! It’s light and fluffy which means it makes ZERO noise!

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You’ll see how we are going to use this plush number cube in just a bit!

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Before diving in, I also want to call-out using math work-mats with dry erase pockets. This allows students to interact with the lesson many times. Just erase and keep on going! We will see how to use this specific comparing numbers work-mat below!

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How did I use the plush number cube? I was introducing comparing numbers to the first grade students.  I chose students to toss the dice for a number between 0 and 20.  We drew that number with base ten blocks.  We rolled again for our second number.  Then, we used comparative language to compare the two numbers!  I bought a class set of THESE Reusable Dry Erase Pockets.

As students were using their comparing numbers mat, I also modeled building the numbers with these large base ten blocks.  I just used magnetic tape on the back so that I could slap them up on the board! These LARGE place value blocks were the perfect visual for students. Plus, if they are laminated, they can be used time and time again!

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Of course, we went beyond numbers 0-20 so that we could understand different types of 2-digit numbers.

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Comparing Numbers Hat

After we practiced rolling, making, and comparing several numbers the students went back to their desks to create a comparing numbers hat.  I had students roll two numbers to compare.  They made those numbers with dot stickers (super cheap).

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The students loved making their little hats!  Many of them proudly shared their comparing number sentences with the class after making them!

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Comparing Numbers Independent Practice

Then it was time for a little independent practice!  We used two different dice (0-9 and 0-20) to generate our two numbers.  Then, students highlighted the correct comparative language!  Click HERE for 9 sided dice.  Click HERE for 20 sided dice.

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All in all, I’d say that was a pretty great day!  I was impressed with how well the students did!

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Comparing Numbers Resources

If you are looking for even more interactive and engaging activities to teach comparing numbers, check out these resources

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FREE Day of Hands-On Activities for Comparing Numbers

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comparing numbers

Hi, I'm Amy

Hey, y’all! My name is Amy Lemons and I am passionate about providing students with both engaging and effective standards-based Math and ELA lessons.

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5 Responses

  1. Where did you find your colorful multi-sided dice? I am looking to invest in some but I am having a hard time finding some that include multiple types of dice and colors.