Ordering numbers means arranging numbers from smallest to largest (ascending order) or from largest to smallest (descending order).
When ordering numbers, you always compare place values starting from the largest place (hundred thousands) down to the smallest place (ones).
To compare numbers up to one million, look at each digit from left to right, beginning with the largest place value.
Remember: the number with the greater digit in the leftmost different place value is the larger number.
Here are some examples showing how to order numbers up to one million:
Check your work by reading the sequence out loud to see if it makes sense.
Ordering large numbers can be tricky, but these strategies can help.
Practice often! The more you compare and order numbers, the faster and more accurate you will become.
Common Core alignment: CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.4.NBT.A.2 – Read and write multi-digit whole numbers using base-ten numerals, number names, and expanded form. Compare and order multi-digit numbers based on the value of the digits in each place, using >, =, and < symbols to record the results of comparisons.
This lesson focuses on ordering numbers and is aligned with CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.4.NBT.A.2. Students practice comparing and arranging multi-digit numbers from least to greatest and greatest to least using place value understanding.
Use it for whole-class instruction, independent practice, math centers, or homework.
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