Missing Numbers 1-20: School Theme
Recommended Grade Level:
Type of Resource: PDF
Number of Pages: 8
Coordinating Activities
School Missing Number Cards 1-20
- 20 missing number cards for numbers 1-20 (4 per page)
- Each card shows a school scene with a number row and one blank to write in
Print the cards in color. Laminate and cut them apart to use with a dry-erase marker.
Required Materials:
- Paper, Printer, Ink
- Laminator
- Paper Cutter
- Dry-erase markers
Standards for Counting and Number Sequence
These School cards support early math standards connected to counting forward and writing numbers.
Common Core State Standards: Mathematics
- CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.K.CC.A.2: Count forward beginning from a given number within the known sequence. Kids count on to find the missing number.
- CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.K.CC.A.3: Write numbers from 0 to 20. Kids write each missing number.
Texas Prekindergarten Guidelines and TEKS for Mathematics
- TEKS K.2A: Count forward and backward to at least 20 with and without objects.
- TEKS K.2B: Read, write and represent whole numbers from 0 to at least 20. Kids write the missing numbers.
Virginia Mathematics Standards of Learning
- K.NS.2.a: Read, write and identify the numerals 0 through 30. Kids write the missing numeral.
School Missing Number Cards 1-20 help preschool and kindergarten kids count forward and write the missing number with a hands-on printable math activity.
Back to school counting! Kids read the number row and write the missing number.
Each card shows a row of numbers in a school scene with one blank box. Kids count forward, find the missing number and write it in the box.
Laminate the cards and use a dry-erase marker so kids can practice again and again.
Store the cards on a binder ring with a dry-erase marker for a quick back-to-school center.
How to Use School Missing Number Cards 1-20
- Read the numbers on the card.
- Count forward to find the missing number.
- Write the missing number in the box.
- Wipe the card clean and pick a new one.
Small Group: Give each child a card. Count the numbers aloud together and have kids write their answer.
Independent Practice: Place the cards and dry-erase markers in a math center. Kids work through the cards on their own.
Easy Ways to Differentiate These Cards
Every group of kids has a mix of counting, number recognition and fine motor skills. These simple changes keep the activity familiar while meeting each child where they are.
For Children Who Need More Support:
- Start with the cards for 1-10.
- Use a number line for support.
- Count aloud together before writing.
- Let kids point to the answer on a number line.
For On-Level Practice:
- Use all 20 cards.
- Say the full number sequence after writing.
- Check answers with a partner.
- Put the cards in order.
For an Extra Challenge:
- Count backward from the last number.
- Name the number that comes before the first number.
- Make your own missing number card.
- Write the number word for the missing number.
For Speech, OT, ELL or Special Education Support:
- Model the number word and give plenty of wait time.
- Accept pointing, gestures, AAC or any communication method the child already uses.
- Use tongs or tweezers to place counters for added fine motor practice.
- Repeat the same small set of numbers across several sessions.
- Use the words before, after and next as kids count.
School Missing Number Cards 1-20 Are Perfect For:
- Preschool and pre-K
- Kindergarten
- ELL and multilingual learners
- Back-to-school themes
- Math centers
- Morning tubs
- Small-group instruction
- Intervention
- Special education
- Speech, OT and early intervention sessions
- Homeschool preschool and kindergarten
- Substitute plans
