Find the Missing Whole Numbers on a Number Line

Use this resource in your math center, as a small group activity, or a whole class exercise (see below) to practice identifying two-and-three digit whole numbers on a number line.

Provide each student with a recording sheet (included) and the task cards to review each sequence of whole numbers. Students will identify missing numbers marked as A, B, and C and fill in the corresponding numbers for each card on their recording sheet. 

Task cards can be used with mini whiteboards, math notebooks, smartboards, etc. 

Scaffolding and Extension Tips + More Missing Number Activities

Challenge students who already understand the concept to write the numbers that come before the numbers shown on the task card. They can also create their own task cards and swap with a partner. 

Support students who need help understanding the concepts by limiting the number of blanks on the number line. Students can also refer to a hundreds chart, skip counting guide or other visual aid. 

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

🛴 Scoot Activity

Place the task cards around the room in numerical order and give each student a recording sheet. Assign each student a number to start. Give students an appropriate amount of time to review the card and solve for A, B, and C, 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 

Using your smartboard or another projection device, present the task cards and work through each together as a whole class. Students can write the answers on their recording sheet or a piece of paper. 

⌛ Exit Activity

After your lesson, pass out cards to students as a math problem they will answer on their own. 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). 

Get our 10 Best Scaffolding Strategies here! 

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: cut out the cards and punch a hole in the corner of each to place them on a binder ring. 

To turn this teaching resource into a sustainable activity, print a few recording sheets on cardstock and slip them into dry-erase sleeves. Students can record their 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 worksheet 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 answer key are also included with this download.

Lorin Davies, a teacher in Texas and Teach Starter collaborator contributed to this resource.

You can count on us for more counting activities and games to get your students excited about number lines:

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