Comparing 2-digit numbers is a key place value concept in first grade. As first grade teachers, we know how important it is to help our students develop strong number sense and place value skills. Here are five fun and easy activities that will make comparing 2-digit numbers both engaging and meaningful for your students!
1. Comparing 2-Digit Numbers with Base Ten Blocks
Before your students start comparing numbers, they need a solid understanding of what the numbers represent. Using base ten blocks is a fantastic way to visually show the place value of numbers. By physically building numbers, students can see the difference between tens and ones.
Tip: Pair students up and turn this into a fun game! Have each student draw a number card and build the number with base ten blocks or quick pictures. Next, students talk about how many tens and ones each number has. Then, they add the greater than or less than symbol. Last, they draw two new numbers and play again!
2. Use a Hundred Chart
A hundred chart is an excellent tool for helping students see number relationships. Have your students locate both numbers on the chart. You can use a laminated chart or a write-and-wipe pocket with dry erase markers. After finding both numbers, have your students circle them and identify which one is larger.
Why it works: Students will start to see that numbers in lower rows are larger, and numbers further to the right in the same row are greater. This visual representation helps solidify their understanding of number order.
3. Transition to Comparing Only Numerals
Once your students are comfortable with base ten blocks and the hundred chart, it’s time to start comparing just the numerals. Begin by teaching them to look at the tens place first. This is the quickest way to determine which number is larger. Have students practice by underlining the digit in the tens place. This activity works great with worksheets, or games. This snowman game is available in my TPT shop.
Another game: You can play a game of “WAR” using a deck of 2-digit number cards. Students flip over two cards, and the student with the larger number wins the round. This simple game reinforces their understanding of place value and gives them practice comparing numerals.
4. Sequence Numbers to Build Number Sense
Sequencing numbers is another great way to reinforce place value skills. You can provide students with a set of mixed-up 2-digit numbers and have them arrange them in order from least to greatest or greatest to least. This helps strengthen their ability to recognize which numbers are larger or smaller.
In the classroom: You can use worksheets or have students play a game where they race to sequence numbers correctly. This activity will also help them gain fluency in reading and understanding 2-digit numbers.
5. Compare 2-Digit Numbers with a Dice Game
For a fun, strategic activity, have students work with a partner to roll dice and create 2-digit numbers. The twist? Students can decide where to place each number. They roll a 10-sided die (or use a 6-sided die) and decide whether to place the roll in the tens or one’s column. After rolling the dice, the students compare their numbers and see who has the greater value.
Why it’s great: This game encourages critical thinking, as students need to decide the best place to put each number to create the largest possible number. It’s a fun way to practice comparing numbers in a low-pressure, hands-on way!
Ready-Made Resources for Comparing 2-Digit Numbers
Looking for some easy-to-use materials to help your students practice comparing 2-digit numbers? Click the images below to check out these fun and effective resources designed to reinforce these key skills!
By incorporating these activities into your lessons, you’ll help your first graders develop a deeper understanding of comparing numbers, and they’ll have fun doing it!
