Delicious Donuts: Ordinal Numbers to 20 is a fun and engaging way for students to practise identifying and using ordinal numbers in a meaningful context. Using a tempting row of donuts, students will work on recognising position, sequencing items in order, and applying the correct ordinal number language to describe them. This activity encourages both written responses and active listening, making it perfect for reinforcing mathematical vocabulary in a hands-on way.

Students begin by writing the ordinal numbers for each donut in the line. They then listen to or read a series of instructions about specific donuts – for example, “Colour the 5th donut blue” or “Draw sprinkles on the 12th donut.” This interactive element helps learners strengthen their listening comprehension skills while also applying their understanding of ordinal numbers. It’s a great way to integrate maths with following directions, attention to detail, and fine motor skills.

The activity includes two levels of difficulty to suit a range of learners. Option 1 focuses on ordinal numbers to 10, making it ideal for early learners or those who are just beginning to grasp the concept. Option 2 extends the challenge to ordinal numbers up to 20, helping students expand their skills and vocabulary. With its appealing theme and simple setup, Delicious Donuts: Ordinal Numbers to 20 is perfect for small group rotations, independent practice, or even a fun homework task.

Key Learning Outcomes:

• ✅ Recognise and use ordinal numbers up to 20
• ✅ Match objects in a sequence to the correct ordinal number
• ✅ Follow written or spoken instructions accurately
• ✅ Apply mathematical vocabulary to describe position

What’s Included:

• Two printable worksheets (ordinal numbers to 10 and to 20)
• Instruction sets for listening or reading comprehension
• Teacher guidance for differentiation

Materials Needed:

• Printed activity sheets
• Coloured pencils or markers
• Optional: Laminator for reuse in small group stations

How to Use:

1. Choose the appropriate level (to 10 or to 20) for your students.
2. Have students write the ordinal numbers under each donut.
3. Read aloud or provide the written instruction sheet for students to follow.
4. Students complete the tasks according to the ordinal number directions.
5. Review answers together to reinforce learning and correct vocabulary use.

Ideas for Classroom Use:

• 💡 Use as a listening centre activity where instructions are recorded for students to follow independently
• 💡 Play as a partner game, with one student reading the instructions and the other completing the sheet
• 💡 Incorporate as part of a maths rotation focusing on sequencing and position words

Top Teacher Tips:

• 💛 Differentiate by adjusting the range of ordinal numbers based on student ability
• 💛 Use real objects (like plastic donuts or printed cut-outs) for a tactile learning experience
• 💛 Encourage students to use full sentences when describing their answers (e.g., “The 8th donut has chocolate icing”)

Delicious Donuts: Ordinal Numbers to 20 is a versatile, low-prep, and engaging resource that makes learning about ordinal numbers both fun and practical, while strengthening key maths and listening skills.