2.NBT.3: Read and Write Numbers to 1000

I can read and write numbers to 1000 using base-ten numerals, number names, and expanded form.

What Your Child Needs to Know

This standard focuses on helping your child read and write numbers up to 1000 in three different ways: using digits (base-ten numerals), words (number names), and expanded form (showing the value of each digit).

Being able to represent numbers in multiple ways helps your child develop a deeper understanding of place value and prepares them for more advanced math concepts. This skill is essential for communicating about numbers and solving multi-digit addition and subtraction problems.

Real World Practice

Visual models and hands-on activities

Visual Models

1. Place Value Chart

Use a chart with columns labeled "Hundreds," "Tens," and "Ones" to help visualize the value of each digit in a three-digit number.

2. Base-Ten Blocks

Use flat hundreds blocks, ten-rods, and unit cubes to represent numbers and connect them to their written forms.

3. Number Word Cards

Create cards showing numbers written as digits (e.g., 347) and matching cards with the same numbers written in words (e.g., three hundred forty-seven).

4. Expanded Form Diagrams

Use visual diagrams showing how a number like 425 can be broken down into 400 + 20 + 5 to represent expanded form.

Everyday Activities

1. Number Hunt

Look for three-digit numbers in everyday life (page numbers, house numbers, prices) and practice reading them aloud and writing them in different forms.

2. Number of the Day

Choose a three-digit number each day and have your child write it in digits, words, and expanded form.

3. Number Conversion Game

Take turns saying a three-digit number in words and having the other person write it in digits, or vice versa.

4. Place Value Puzzles

Create puzzles where your child matches the standard form, word form, and expanded form of the same number.

Quick Checks

Strategies and quick activities

Strategies When Your Child Struggles

1. Start with Smaller Numbers

Begin with two-digit numbers before moving to three-digit numbers if your child is having difficulty.

2. Use Place Value Language

Consistently use terms like "hundreds," "tens," and "ones" when talking about the digits in a number.

3. Create Visual Supports

Use place value charts or base-ten blocks to help your child see the connection between the digits and their values.

4. Break It Down

Practice one representation at a time (first digits, then words, then expanded form) before combining them.

5. Connect to Real Life

Point out three-digit numbers in everyday life and practice reading them together.

5-Minute Practice Activities

Activity 1: Number Form Switch

Write a three-digit number in one form (like 362) and have your child write it in another form (like three hundred sixty-two or 300 + 60 + 2).

Activity 2: Expanded Form Race

Call out a three-digit number and see how quickly your child can write it in expanded form.

Activity 3: Word to Digit Challenge

Say a number in words (like "seven hundred twenty-five") and have your child write the digits (725).

Activity 4: Place Value Riddles

Give clues about a number (like "The digit in the hundreds place is 4, the tens place is 2 more than the hundreds, and the ones place is 1") and have your child identify the number (463).