Help your students strengthen their understanding of place value and number order with our hands-on Number Factory: Matching & Ordering 2 Digit Numbers Place Value Activity! Designed to reinforce the concept of tens and ones, this interactive resource encourages students to visualise and manipulate numbers in different forms using MAB (base ten) picture cards and matching numerals.

Through matching, comparing and sequencing, students explore how 2-digit numbers are built and how they relate to one another. The included sorting mats and cards provide structured visual support, while also allowing flexibility in how students complete the task. Whether matching and ordering picture cards, number cards, or combining both, this resource encourages mathematical thinking and conversation around place value.

Number Factory: Matching & Ordering 2 Digit Numbers includes everything you need for an engaging place value activity: colour-coded sorting mats, number and MAB cards, and a recording sheet to capture student understanding. It's ideal for use in small group instruction, maths rotations, or early finishers during a whole-class unit on number and place value.

Key Learning Outcomes:

• ✅ Recognise and build 2-digit numbers using tens and ones
• ✅ Match visual MAB representations to written numbers
• ✅ Order numbers from smallest to largest and justify placement
• ✅ Develop number comparison strategies using place value reasoning
• ✅ Record and explain number relationships through visual models

What’s Included:

• Sorting mats for matching and ordering activity
• MAB (base ten) picture cards for 2-digit numbers
• Number cards to match with MAB visuals
• Recording sheet for consolidation and assessment

Materials Needed:

• Printed and cut card sets (MAB and numeral cards)
• Printed sorting mats (laminated or in sleeves for reuse)
• Scissors, glue or whiteboard markers (if using sleeves)
• Optional: colour printers for differentiated or rotation-based sets

How to Use:

1. Provide each student or pair with a sorting mat and a set of number and MAB cards.
2. Students match MAB representations with their corresponding numbers.
3. Once matched, students order the cards from smallest to largest on the mat.
4. Alternatively, order MAB and number cards separately, then form matched pairs.
5. Use the recording sheet to draw or write matching pairs as evidence of learning.

Ideas for Classroom Use:

• 💡 Use during your place value unit as a maths rotation activity
• 💡 Set up as a fast finisher task or partner challenge
• 💡 Incorporate into small group instruction to support number sense development
• 💡 Encourage students to talk through their ordering process using maths vocabulary
• 💡 Use colour-coded card sets to differentiate for support or extension

Top Teacher Tips:

• 💛 Print backing cards double-sided (flip on short edge) for easy card sorting and reuse
• 💛 Store matched sets in zip-lock bags or labelled pouches for easy access
• 💛 Laminate sorting mats and cards for durability and repeated use
• 💛 Challenge students to explain why one number is greater or smaller using place value terms

Number Factory: Matching & Ordering 2 Digit Numbers Place Value Activity is a visual, practical and versatile way to explore number structure, comparison and sequencing - making it a perfect addition to any place value classroom toolkit.