Support number formation and reinforce early number concepts with a hands-on twist using the Number Formation: Geoboard Cards 0–20 resource. Designed to combine fine motor practice with foundational numeracy, these cards are a dynamic and engaging addition to any early years or Foundation classroom.

Each card invites students to use elastic bands to form numerals on a square geoboard, making the abstract concept of number writing more tangible and interactive. This method strengthens both number recognition and muscle memory, helping students internalise correct formation patterns while staying engaged through play-based learning.

With visual supports like ten frames, hand representations, and number words included on the cards, this resource also supports students in connecting symbolic, visual, and written representations of numbers. Whether used as part of numeracy rotations, independent tasks, or fine motor stations, the Number Formation: Geoboard Cards 0–20 bring flexibility and versatility to early number learning.

Key Learning Outcomes

• ✅ Practise correct formation of numerals from 0 to 20
• ✅ Build number recognition and understanding of number words
• ✅ Strengthen fine motor skills through elastic band manipulation
• ✅ Reinforce subitising and counting through visual representations
• ✅ Connect concrete and symbolic representations of numbers

What’s Included

• Geoboard cards for numbers 0–10 featuring numeral, number word, hands, and ten frame
• Geoboard cards for numbers 11–20 featuring numeral, number word, and two ten frames
• Full-colour and low-ink versions of all cards

Materials Needed

• Printed geoboard number cards (laminated for durability if desired)
• Square geoboards
• Elastic bands in various colours

How to Use

1. Print and cut out the geoboard cards for the numbers you wish to target. Laminate them for reuse if desired.
2. Provide each student with a square geoboard and a selection of elastic bands.
3. Students place a card in front of them and use the bands to recreate the number shown on their geoboard.
4. Encourage students to read the number word, count the ten frame dots, and trace the numeral with their finger before or after forming it.
5. As students work, circulate to observe grip strength, band placement, and number recognition.
6. Rotate cards regularly to provide exposure to a range of numbers, or focus on a smaller number set for differentiation.

Ideas for Classroom Use

• 💡 Add to fine motor tubs or task boxes for morning work or early finishers
• 💡 Use during small group instruction to reinforce number formation with teacher support
• 💡 Set up a maths station where students select a card, form the number, and then draw or write it on whiteboards
• 💡 Include as a rotating activity during numeracy centres focused on number sense
• 💡 Pair with subitising cards or flashcards to help students make additional number connections

Top Teacher Tips

• 💛 Print the cards two-to-a-page to save space and resources while still maintaining clear visuals
• 💛 Store sets of cards on a binder ring or in zip-lock bags to keep them organised and accessible
• 💛 Use colour-coded bands or geoboards for differentiation – for example, red for numbers 0–10 and blue for 11–20
• 💛 Introduce each number slowly and revisit over time to help students consolidate formation habits
• 💛 Send home a printable version of a few cards along with a DIY geoboard made from a corkboard and push pins

Number Formation: Geoboard Cards 0–20 transforms early numeracy into a hands-on, engaging, and multi-sensory experience your students will love to explore again and again.