Grade 4 Place Value: Comparing Large Numbers

Worked examples

Real problems from the practice worksheets, solved one step at a time.

1. Example 1

   6902 ___ 6901

   1. To compare 6902 and 6901, look at how big each number is. For bigger numbers, compare one place at a time, starting from the left.
   2. 6902 is greater than 6901.
   3. So 6902 > 6901. The open, wide end of the sign always faces the bigger number.

   Answer: >

2. Example 2

   11,330 ___ 11,380

   1. To compare 11330 and 11380, look at how big each number is. For bigger numbers, compare one place at a time, starting from the left.
   2. 11330 is less than 11380.
   3. So 11330 < 11380. The open, wide end of the sign always faces the bigger number.

   Answer: <

3. Example 3

   Order from least to greatest (comma-separated): 469181, 401622, 433627

   1. Compare the numbers place by place, starting with the biggest place on the left.
   2. 401622 < 433627: the hundred thousands digits match, and 0 ten thousands < 3 ten thousands.
   3. 433627 < 469181: the hundred thousands digits match, and 3 ten thousands < 6 ten thousands.
   4. So from least to greatest: 401622, 433627, 469181.

   Answer: 401622, 433627, 469181