Bring multiplication to life with our Counting by 2s: Animal Counting worksheets! This engaging set of activities helps students practise skip counting by 2 while connecting the skill to real world contexts. By counting animal legs in different habitats, learners begin to see the purpose behind multiplication and develop a deeper understanding of the relationship between repeated addition and times tables.

Each worksheet encourages students to either skip count or multiply to find the total number of legs, then record their answers by completing a sentence or writing the corresponding number sentence. With multiple versions included, this resource is designed for easy differentiation, allowing you to tailor the level of support to suit the needs of your class. Visual learners, hands on learners, and those ready to move on to abstract multiplication all benefit from this flexible set.

Perfect for introducing the concept of multiplying by 2, these worksheets can be used as part of whole class lessons, in small groups, or for independent consolidation. Pair them with manipulatives, drawings, or oral counting for extra reinforcement, and encourage students to explore different strategies for solving the same problem. The animal theme makes practice fun and engaging, while the structured recording tasks support mathematical communication and accuracy.

Key Learning Outcomes

• ✅ Practise skip counting by 2 in engaging contexts
• ✅ Link repeated addition to multiplication facts
• ✅ Record solutions using written number sentences
• ✅ Develop fluency with the 2 times tables
• ✅ Build problem solving skills through contextual tasks

What’s Included

• 4 differentiated versions of the Animal Counting worksheet
• Tasks that progress from skip counting with visuals to abstract multiplication
• Opportunities for students or teachers to customise the problems

Materials Needed

• Printed worksheets (laminate for reuse if desired)
• Pencils, crayons, or markers for recording
• Optional counters or manipulatives for extra support

How to Use

1. Introduce skip counting by 2 using real or illustrated examples of animals.
2. Distribute the differentiated worksheets according to student readiness.
3. Guide students to complete the sentences or multiplication number sentences.
4. Encourage students to draw or use counters if they need extra support.
5. Review as a class, highlighting different strategies used to solve the problems.

Ideas for Classroom Use

• 💡 Use in small groups as part of a multiplication rotation
• 💡 Pair with animal figurines or counters to create a tactile experience
• 💡 Challenge fast finishers to invent their own animal habitats and equations
• 💡 Display completed worksheets on a maths wall to celebrate learning
• 💡 Incorporate as homework for extra multiplication practice at home

Top Teacher Tips

• 💛 Start with the visual support version to build confidence before moving to abstract tasks
• 💛 Print on card and laminate so students can use dry erase markers and revisit the activity
• 💛 Encourage oral rehearsal of the 2 times tables alongside written practice
• 💛 Use the open ended version to differentiate by student ability
• 💛 Pair this activity with our Counting by 2s: At the $2 Shop activity for extra reinforcement

The Counting by 2s: Animal Counting worksheets are a versatile and engaging way to build fluency with the 2 times tables. By combining visuals, contextual problems, and differentiated levels of challenge, this resource supports all learners in developing a strong foundation in multiplication.