Ordering numbers, step by step

Once children can compare two numbers, the next step is lining up several at once.

The question

Order: 13, 2, 0, 17

given:132017
sorted:021317
sorted:021317
0 < 2 < 13 < 17
  1. Sort by how many DIGITS first — it splits the pile before any comparing is needed, and it is what stops 2 being put after 13.
  2. Smallest first: 0, 2, 13, 17.
  3. Written with the signs: 0 < 2 < 13 < 17. Every open end faces the bigger number, all the way along.

How it works.

  1. 01

    Sort by how many DIGITS first — it splits the pile before any comparing is needed, and it is what stops 2 being put after 13.

  2. 02

    Smallest first: 0, 2, 13, 17.

  3. 03

    Written with the signs: 0 < 2 < 13 < 17. Every open end faces the bigger number, all the way along.