Practise creating decimal number patterns and identifying number rules with our engaging Number Rules Cut & Paste Worksheets: Decimal Number Patterns! This hands-on activity combines pattern recognition, rule creation, and a fun detective-style twist that keeps students alert and thinking critically.

Students will use the given numbers to build decimal patterns and identify the underlying rule for each set. But there’s a twist! Some numbers don’t belong and must be spotted and “jailed.” These sneaky numbers break the pattern rules and must be found and pasted into the jail cells on the worksheet. This unexpected element adds excitement while sharpening students’ attention to detail and number sense.

Perfect for small group rotations, individual practise, or as an extension task, this differentiated set of worksheets helps support learners at different levels while building their confidence with decimal patterns. Use it to consolidate decimal understanding and encourage mathematical thinking in a playful way.

Key Learning Outcomes:

• ✅ Identify and continue number patterns involving decimal numbers
• ✅ Recognise and describe mathematical rules in sequences
• ✅ Develop reasoning and problem-solving strategies
• ✅ Apply decimal place value knowledge in context
• ✅ Strengthen focus and attention to detail through error detection

What’s Included:

• 3 differentiated worksheets:
• Numbers to 1 decimal place with rules provided
• Numbers to 1 decimal place with no rules provided
• Numbers to 2 decimal places with no rules provided
• Cut-and-paste number tiles for each worksheet
• Jail cell spaces to place incorrect numbers
• Answer keys for easy checking and support

Materials Needed:

• Printed worksheets (1 per student or small group)
• Scissors and glue sticks
• Pencils or markers
• Optional: A3 paper if enlarging for group work

How to Use:

1. Choose the worksheet version appropriate to your students’ level.
2. Students cut out the provided number tiles.
3. They examine each tile, determine which pattern it fits, and identify the number rule.
4. Correct numbers are glued into the pattern boxes, while rule-breakers are jailed.
5. Use the answer key to review and discuss as a class or in small groups.

Ideas for Classroom Use:

• 💡 Use as a follow-up activity after teaching decimal pattern rules.
• 💡 Set up as a hands-on maths station in small groups using enlarged A3 versions.
• 💡 Challenge fast finishers to write their own rule-breaking numbers to share with peers.
• 💡 Encourage students to explain their reasoning aloud when deciding where each number belongs.
• 💡 Use the differentiated versions to support a range of learners in the same classroom.

Top Teacher Tips:

• 💛 Enlarge the worksheets to A3 for collaborative group work or extra working space.
• 💛 Pre-cut the number tiles for younger students or those needing fine motor support.
• 💛 Laminate and reuse with Velcro or magnets for interactive whiteboard work.
• 💛 Extend learning by asking students to write their own number patterns and rules.

Number Rules Cut & Paste Worksheets: Decimal Number Patterns are a fun and flexible way to explore decimal concepts while promoting reasoning and attention to detail. A great addition to your number pattern toolkit!