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Kindergarten Math Units

Unit Plan 12 (Grade K Math): Compare Numbers 1–10

Compare numbers 1–10 using models and numerals; decide more, fewer, or same, and justify with matching, counting, ten-frames, or number paths.

Dr. Michael Kester-Haynes

• 5 min read
Unit Plan 12 (Grade K Math): Compare Numbers 1–10

Focus: Use numerals and models to compare two numbers (1–10); defend comparisons with matching (one-to-one) or counting and clear language (more, fewer, same as).

Grade Level: K

Subject Area: Mathematics (Counting & Cardinality)

Total Unit Duration: 5 sessions (one week), 30–40 minutes per session

I. Introduction

Students learn to decide which group has more, fewer, or is the same as another by first matching objects one-to-one and, when needed, counting and comparing totals. They then connect these ideas to written numerals 1–10 and explain their decisions using evidence.

Essential Questions

  • How can matching and counting help me tell which is more, fewer, or the same?
  • Why does organizing or lining up objects make comparing easier?
  • How do numerals 1–10 show which number is larger or smaller?

II. Objectives and Standards

Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:

  1. Compare sets (1–10) using one-to-one matching and state more/fewer/same as.
  2. Count and compare when matching is hard; use the totals to decide the comparison.
  3. Compare two numerals (1–10) and explain which is greater/less.
  4. Defend a comparison with evidence (matched pairs, counts, ten-frames, or number path).
  5. Choose an efficient strategy (match or count) and use precise language.

Standards Alignment — CCSS Kindergarten (threaded across the unit)

  • K.CC.6: Identify whether the number of objects in one group is greater than, less than, or equal to the number of objects in another group (e.g., by using matching and counting strategies).
  • K.CC.7: Compare two numbers between 1 and 10 presented as written numerals.
  • Mathematical Practices: MP.3 (construct arguments & critique) emphasized; MP.2, MP.6 threaded.

Success Criteria — Student Language

  • I can match objects to decide more/fewer/same.
  • I can count both sets and compare the totals.
  • I can tell which numeral (1–10) is greater or less.
  • I can show my evidence (matched pairs, counts, ten-frame, number path) and explain my choice.