Learning about Numbers

In class, we are busy learning about numbers in math.  We have discovered that our numbers system (the Base Ten Numbers System) revolves around the number 10.  We are becoming more comfortable with place value in 2 digit and (more recently) 3 digit numbers.  We are comparing numbers and ordering numbers.  

I used hungry alligators to help kids with comparing numbers.  As you can see, the mouths of the alligators closely resemble the greater than > and less than < math symbols.  

I'm also encouraging kids to use math words to describe their understanding.  So when someone tells me that 47 > 38, I ask, "how do you know?  Can you use math words to explain it?"  "Oh, 47 has more tens than 38. Got it."

To make it more engaging, I've am also trying to make math meaningful. For example, instead of just ordering random numbers, we're ordering Lego Movies based on how many minutes they are or books based on how many pages they have or ordering kids based on how many centimeters tall they are.