Number desk strip, 1 to 20 (free printable)

About this sheet

A number strip is a number line a child can keep at arm's length. It is the first reference for counting on, for writing numerals in order and for seeing that eleven comes after ten. Each number sits in its own cell, tinted in alternate cells so the eye can follow the line, in type large enough to read from a seat. The strip runs from one to twenty by default, and you can set any length from five to thirty, for a class learning to ten or to a month's dates. Print on card stock, cut along the dashed lines and tape to the desk. The same strips go in a math center for counting and ordering games.

Grades: Pre-K to 2. Best in: August, September, October.

How to use it

1. Choose the length of the strip and how many to print. Twenty suits most early classes, and ten suits the youngest.
2. Print on card stock, cut along the dashed outline and tape one to each desk, or laminate a set for a center.
3. Teach children to touch each number as they count, and to put a finger on a number and count on from it.

Five ideas for class

1. Use the strip for counting on: put a finger on 8 and count on three more, saying nine, ten, eleven aloud as you move.
2. Cut a strip into single numbers and ask a pair to put them back in order, then check against an uncut strip.
3. Say a number and ask which comes before it and after it. The strip makes the order visible without a lesson on it.
4. Use a short strip, one to ten, for the youngest, and a longer one for those who are ready, so that every desk has the right reference.
5. Add a dot with a marker at the number of the day of the month, and move it each morning to link the strip to the calendar.

Related

• Number words desk strip
• Skip counting strips
• Blank number lines
• Hundreds chart
• Number line