Grade 2: Comparing and Ordering Numbers

When we compare two numbers we decide which one is bigger, which is smaller, or whether they are equal.
We show the answer with one of three signs.
This lesson lets you build two numbers and watch the correct sign appear.

The Three Signs

>
greater than
8 > 5
<
less than
3 < 7
=
equal to
6 = 6

A helpful trick:
the open, wide side of the sign always faces the bigger number, and the pointy side faces the smaller number.
Think of it like a hungry mouth that always wants to eat the larger number.

Try it — change each number with the buttons and watch the sign and the sentence change.

45
>
38
45 is greater than 38
The wide side of the sign faces the bigger number.

Compare the Tens First

To compare two 2-digit numbers, look at the tens first.
The number with more tens is bigger.
Only if the tens are the same do you compare the ones.

Example:
62 and 58 → 6 tens beats 5 tens, so 62 > 58.
47 and 43 → same tens, so compare ones: 7 > 3, so 47 > 43.
💡 Ordering: to put numbers in order, compare them two at a time.
Ascending means smallest to biggest; descending means biggest to smallest.
Grade 2 Math Lessons
  1. Place Value
  2. Comparing & Ordering Numbers (this lesson)
  3. Skip Counting
  4. Addition with Regrouping
  5. Subtraction with Borrowing
  6. Even & Odd Numbers

Frequently Asked Questions

What do the signs >, <, and = mean?
  • The sign > means "greater than"
  • The sign < means "less than"
  • The sign = means "equal to".
  • The wide open side always faces the bigger number.
How do I compare two 2-digit numbers?
  • Compare the tens digit first.
  • The number with more tens is greater.
  • If the tens are equal, compare the ones digit.
What is the difference between ascending and descending order?
  • Ascending order goes from the smallest number to the biggest.
  • Descending order goes from the biggest number to the smallest.

Practise Comparing Numbers

Ready to practise? Try the printable worksheet with a full answer key.

Grade 2 Comparing Numbers Worksheet →
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