NC.1.NBT.3

Students are then expected to compare two two-digit numbers based on the number of the tens and ones in the numbers. Students should have multiple opportunities to build numbers with concrete models or drawings of two-digit numbers or place value (base ten) blocks. After verbally discussing the number of tens and ones in each number, first-grade students may record the results of the comparisons with the symbols for greater than (>), less than (<), and equal (=). 

Note: The equal sign should be thought of as “is the same as” where the number or expression on the left side has the value as the number or expression on the right side of the equal sign. 

One of the most common errors occurs when comparing reversals, such as 34 and 43. By building these numbers with concrete models or drawings students are able to see the number of tens and ones that are in each of the numbers.