🕵🏽‍♀️ Match the Picture to Find the Missing Number!🕵🏼

In this counting to 100 activity, your students will become number sleuths.  

To play, students will pick from one of three Missing Numbers charts and use their recording sheet to find the matching picture. When they determine the number the image is replacing, they’ll write it in the matching space on the recording sheet.

Through this activity, students will show they can count to 100, starting at any number. 

Scaffolding + Extension Tips 

Use a visual reminder of the correct order of numbers for students who need it, such as a 100 board displayed in the classroom or on their desk plate.

Challenge fast finishers to use manipulatives to cover additional numbers on the 100 chart and quiz a classmate.

More Ways to Find the Missing Number

A team of dedicated, experienced educators created this resource for students to work on independently in your maths groups. 

However, check out our suggestions for using this activity to reinforce your small group and full-class lessons too: 

🔔 Warm-Up Activity

Wake up your students’ brains first thing in the morning! Project a Missing Numbers chart for your students to see as soon as they enter the classroom. Provide students with a recording sheet to fill in each missing number. Collect their papers before your maths lesson or discuss the answers as a group.

🔚 Exit Activity

Make multiple copies of the recording sheet and cut the images + blank spaces into strips (10 per page). After your lesson, pass them out so each student has a strip. Project a Missing Numbers chart and ask students to match their picture with the missing number. Make sure they include their name at the top before turning in their answers. 

Easily Prepare This Resource for Your Students

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

Sustainability Tip: Print a few recording sheets on cardboard and slip them into dry-erase sleeves. Students can write the answers with a dry-erase marker, then erase and reuse.

Because this activity includes an answer sheet, we recommend first printing one copy of the entire file. Then, make photocopies of the blank recording sheets for students to complete. 

Before You Download

Use the dropdown icon on the Download button to choose between the PDF or Google Slides version of this resource. A recording sheet and three answer keys are also included with this download.

68 Ideas and Tips for Setting Up Maths Rotations in the Classroom »

This resource was created by Lindsey Phillips, a Teach Starter Collaborator. 

Get counting with these numbers and sequencing activities too!