This activity is the perfect reinforcement tool for plotting digits on number lines and comparing whole numbers. 

Put Whole Numbers On A Number Line

Through this activity, students will show they can name the whole number that corresponds to a specific point on a number line with equally spaced points. 

Students will match the whole number to the exact point on its corresponding number line card. 

Scaffolding + Extension Tips 

Support students who need help understanding the concepts by starting with smaller numbers and gradually increasing the number complexity. 

Challenge fast finishers who already understand the concept by introducing more complex numbers or decimals. 

Get our 10 Best Scaffolding Strategies here! 

Practice Putting Whole Numbers On A Number Line With These Activities

We created this resource for your math center as an independent practice activity. We also suggest using it to reinforce your small group and full-class lessons in the following ways: 

🛴 Scoot Activity

Number and place the number line task cards around the room and instruct students to number a blank sheet of paper 1-16. Assign each student a number to start. Give students an appropriate amount of time to review the card and identify the missing 2-digit whole number, then say, “SCOOT.” At this time, the students will rotate to the next card. Continue in this manner until students have made it through all of the cards. 

🧑‍🏫 Group Lesson 

Use your smartboard or another projection device to work through each together as a whole class. You can choose to present the number line task card and have students identify the missing number, or present the whole number and have students put it on a task card with equally spaced points. You can even show students multiple numbers and have them plot them all on a single number line with equally spaced points of their choosing. Students can write their answers on a piece of paper. 

⌛ Exit Activity

After your lesson, pass out cards to students as a math problem they will answer independently. Provide them with a sticky note so that they can turn in their answer as a formative assessment, making sure to write their name on the sticky note (or use our Sticky Note Printing Guide + Template). 

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. 

Keep the task cards out of pockets or under desks: punch a hole in the corner of each to place them on a binder ring. 

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 Lauren Blankenship, a teacher in Florida and Teach Starter Collaborator. 

We’ve got more number line activities where that came from! Check these out while you’re here:  

teaching resource

Whole Numbers on a Number Line - Task Cards

Identify the missing 2-digit whole numbers on a number line with this set of 24 task cards.