An Ordering Integers Activity to Engage Students

This ordering integers activity is a great addition to an integers unit. Each task card has three numbers that students must order. Some cards direct students to put the integers in increasing order, and others in decreasing order, providing varied practice.

This resource includes:

• 24 task cards
• Directions
• Recording sheet
• Answer key

This ordering integers activity works well in centers, small groups, or as independent practice. Print it on cardstock and laminate the cards to use it in your classroom for years to come!

How to Order Integers

If your students need a little assistance with this activity, here is a helpful guide:

To order a set of integers in increasing order, or from least to greatest, you would start with the smallest integer and work your way up to the largest integer. For example, the set {-5, 2, 6, -3, 9} would be ordered as {-5, -3, 2, 6, 9}.

To order a set of integers in decreasing order, or from greatest to least, you would start with the largest integer and work your way down to the smallest integer. For example, the set {-5, 2, 6, -3, 9} would be ordered as {9, 6, 2, -3, -5}.

Easily Prepare This Resource for Your Students

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

This resource was created by Cassandra Friesen, a teacher in Colorado and Teach Starter Collaborator. 

Additional Resources for Teaching Integers

Don’t stop there! We’ve got more activities and resources that cut down on lesson planning time:  

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Comparing Integers – Math Mazes

Compare positive and negative numbers while you work your way through this set of math mazes.

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Adding and Subtracting Integers - Codebreaker Worksheets

Crack the positive and negative number code with four adding and subtracting integers worksheets.

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Sequencing Integers – Picture Puzzles

Practice ordering positive and negative numbers with a set of picture puzzles.