Learn on PengienVision, Mathematics, Grade 4Chapter 1: Generalize Place Value Understanding

Lesson 3: Compare Whole Numbers

In this Grade 4 lesson from enVision Mathematics Chapter 1, students learn how to compare whole numbers using place value, recording comparisons with the symbols greater than, less than, or equal to. The lesson teaches a step-by-step method of aligning digits by place and comparing from left to right to find the first position where digits differ. Students apply this skill to multi-digit numbers up to the hundred-thousands place through real-world contexts such as ocean depths and country areas.

Section 1

Recording Multi-Digit Numbers Comparisons

Property

To record the result of a comparison between two numbers, aa and bb, we use the following symbols:

  • a<ba < b means "aa is less than bb".
  • a>ba > b means "aa is greater than bb".
  • a=ba = b means "aa is equal to bb".

Examples

Section 2

Comparing Multi-Digit Numbers

Property

To compare two numbers, first check the number of digits. The number with more digits is greater. If they have the same number of digits, compare the digits from left to right, starting with the largest place value, until you find a place where the digits are different.

Examples

Book overview

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Chapter 1: Generalize Place Value Understanding

  1. Lesson 1

    Lesson 1: Numbers Through One Million

  2. Lesson 2

    Lesson 2: Place Value Relationships

  3. Lesson 3Current

    Lesson 3: Compare Whole Numbers

  4. Lesson 4

    Lesson 4: Round Whole Numbers

Lesson overview

Expand to review the lesson summary and core properties.

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Section 1

Recording Multi-Digit Numbers Comparisons

Property

To record the result of a comparison between two numbers, aa and bb, we use the following symbols:

  • a<ba < b means "aa is less than bb".
  • a>ba > b means "aa is greater than bb".
  • a=ba = b means "aa is equal to bb".

Examples

Section 2

Comparing Multi-Digit Numbers

Property

To compare two numbers, first check the number of digits. The number with more digits is greater. If they have the same number of digits, compare the digits from left to right, starting with the largest place value, until you find a place where the digits are different.

Examples

Book overview

Jump across lessons in the current chapter without opening the full course modal.

Continue this chapter

Chapter 1: Generalize Place Value Understanding

  1. Lesson 1

    Lesson 1: Numbers Through One Million

  2. Lesson 2

    Lesson 2: Place Value Relationships

  3. Lesson 3Current

    Lesson 3: Compare Whole Numbers

  4. Lesson 4

    Lesson 4: Round Whole Numbers