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Numbers · Grade 4

Comparing Large Whole Numbers Worksheets

Begin with the greatest place value. The first place that differs decides which whole number is greater.

6 problemsAnswer key includedFree printableA4 & US Letter
Generate & printSee the worked example

Compare matching places

Compare 482,615 and 428,965. Both have four hundred-thousands. The next place differs: eight ten-thousands are greater than two ten-thousands, so 482,615 > 428,965. The larger ones digit in the second number does not change that result.

Check the number of digits

For whole numbers written without leading zeros, a number with more digits is greater. Thus 100,000 is greater than 99,999. If the digit counts match, compare from left to right until a place differs.

305,080 < 350,008

The hundred-thousands match. Zero ten-thousands are fewer than five ten-thousands, so stop there.

Zero holds a position

Do not remove zeros before comparing. In 305,080, each zero keeps the surrounding digits in their proper places. A place-value chart can help align digits when the numbers have different lengths.

If a child compares only the last three digits: cover those digits temporarily and read the thousands groups first. Uncover the remaining places only if the higher places match.

Read the symbol aloud

The open side faces the greater number. Read 305,080 < 350,008 as “305,080 is less than 350,008.” When every place matches, use =. For example, 72,406 = 72,406.

Commas help reading

A comma separates each group of three digits from the right. It does not add a place or change a value. 84025 and 84,025 are the same whole number.

About this practice

Each set contains six distinct ordered pairs from the original bank. Numbers range from 0 through 999,999; smaller numbers can appear alongside larger ones. A set does not guarantee an equal pair, a zero, or a particular place of difference.

Use the working space to name the first differing place. Number names, expanded forms, and decimal comparisons are separate activities. The value 1,000,000 itself is outside this source range.

Make a practice set

Choose what to print. Selecting both shows the answer key on screen and prints the questions followed by the answers.

Print materials

After the practice

Ask the child to name the first different place and justify its value. If the numbers are equal, ask how they checked every place.

More about numbers · Grade 4 worksheets

Grade 4 selected skill connection: 4.NBT.A.2. See the Common Core grade guidance. This worksheet does not cover every requirement in the standard.