Comparing on the number line

Sometimes it's quicker to look at the number line than to count tens and ones. Let's learn that way.

What the number line is

The number line is a straight line with the numbers in order — from the smallest on the left to the biggest on the right.

You can see 0, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100. They are exactly ten apart. All the other numbers fit in between — for example, 47 sits between 40 and 50.

Which number is bigger

The rule is simple:

The number that is further to the right is bigger.

Look at where 23 is and where 65 is. 65 is much further right. So 65 > 23.

Example: 38 and 41

• 38 sits between 30 and 40, close to 40.
• 41 sits just past 40, also close to 40, just on the other side.

Even though they're side by side, 41 is a little further right. So 41 > 38.

Picture it as a race. The number that ran further (to the right) wins.

When to use which method

• Tens and ones — when the numbers are written down and you need a fast answer.
• Number line — when you want to see how far apart two numbers are. The gap between 38 and 41 (almost touching) is very different from 38 and 80 (far apart).

Both methods give the same answer. Pick whichever feels easier right now.

Summary

• On the number line, numbers go from smallest on the left to biggest on the right.
• Whatever is further right is bigger.
• The number line is great when you want to see how far apart numbers are.