Number lines help students visualise abstract numbers—like decimals and fractions—so you can see them as part of a whole and better understand their relative distance from one another.

For example, if you were to plot ½ and 0.5 on a number line, students would see that both are equal halves of the number 1 and take up the same space on the line. 

But if you were to plot ¾ and 0.25, students would see that the fraction is much more of the whole than the decimal because it takes up more of the number line.  

Let students practise this maths skill with our Fractions and Decimals Number Line Puzzles! 

Match Fractions & Decimals On Number Line 

Through this activity, students will show they can use a number line to display fractions and decimals to the nearest hundredths. 

Using the two-piece puzzles, players will match a fraction or a decimal piece to the exact point on its corresponding number line card. Play extends to three-piece puzzles where students match a decimal and its fraction to a precise point on a corresponding number line card. 

Scaffolding + Extension Tips 

Students can complete this activity independently, in pairs, or with small-group support from the teacher. 

Challenge students who already understand the concept to play without the number line pieces and instead write the fraction or decimal on a number line they create using a mini whiteboard or sheet of paper. 

Support students who need help understanding the concepts by recreating the number lines and plotting the points by hand. Slip pieces into a clear sleeve for students to use a dry-erase marker to trace the number line and label the points based on the denominator of the fraction or place value of the decimal. Once the number line is marked, students can identify the exact location of the value they seek. 

One Activity = Many Ways to Plot Fractions & Decimals

Use this resource as independent practice for fast finishers and full-class learning opportunities like scoot activities, lesson reviews, formative assessments, and more.

🛴 Scoot Activity

Number and hang decimal and fraction pieces in numerical order around the room as task cards, and instruct students to number a sheet of paper. Assign students or pairs to a starting point card. Give students appropriate time to review the card and plot it on a number line in the corresponding space on their paper. The students will rotate to the next card on your cue (for example, say, “SCOOT”). Continue in this manner until students return to their starting point. 

🧩 Match Me If You Can

Shuffle the decimal and fraction pieces in your small group and deal them to students. Then, show students a number line and discuss the marked points as fractions and decimals. The student (or students) with the matching decimal or fraction piece lays it down face up—the first person to run out wins. 

👉 Knock Off

Have your students stand up and make a line across the room. Project a number line on the screen and use our Random Name Picker widget to draw a student’s name to provide the corresponding fraction or decimal. If the student answers correctly, they tap the person on their left or right to send them back to their seat. If the student answers the card incorrectly, they must sit out. Play continues until only one student is standing.

Easily Prepare This Resource for Your Students

Print on cardstock for added durability and longevity. Place all pieces in a folder or large envelope for easy access. 

Before You Download

Use the dropdown icon on the Download button to choose between the PDF or Google Slides version of this resource. 

This resource was created by Megan Cargile, a Teach Starter Collaborator.