Pirate Sea Race: Numbers to 20 POWERPOINT is an exciting, team-based game that helps students practise recognising numbers from 1 to 20 through a variety of representations. Perfect for early years classrooms, this interactive race across the sea adds a fun twist to number learning and fluency.

Check out this video below to see this resource in action.

Students join the green or purple pirate crew and take turns identifying number forms displayed on the map. These may include number words, base ten blocks (MAB), ten frames, hand representations, objects, or tally marks. Teams move their ships forward for each correct answer, racing to be the first to reach the treasure island!

With clear visuals, competitive gameplay, and built-in classroom interaction, this PowerPoint is perfect for whole-class use on an interactive whiteboard or during a small group maths rotation. Students practise number recognition while building team spirit, strategy and fluency in a game-based setting.

Key Learning Outcomes:

• ✅ Recognise and interpret numbers from 1 to 20 in a variety of forms
• ✅ Match visual representations to number words and numerals
• ✅ Develop fluency through fast-paced game interaction
• ✅ Engage in collaborative, team-based problem solving
• ✅ Build number sense using ten frames, MAB, tallies and more

What’s Included:

• Interactive PowerPoint game with pirate sea race theme
• Two pirate teams: green and purple
• Number representations include:
  • - Number words
  • - Base ten (MAB)
  • - Ten frames
  • - Tally marks
  • - Hand forms
  • - Object groups
• Click-to-move ships and compass start button

Materials Needed:

• PowerPoint-compatible device with sound enabled
• Interactive whiteboard, projector, or screen for class display
• Optional: scoreboards or pirate-themed props for team spirit

How to Use:

1. Divide the class into two pirate teams: green and purple.
2. Open the PowerPoint in slideshow mode and click the compass to reveal a number clue.
3. Students identify the number shown and give their team’s answer.
4. If correct, move the team’s ship forward one step on the map.
5. The first ship to reach the island wins the treasure!

Ideas for Classroom Use:

• 💡 Use as a maths warm-up or end-of-week team challenge
• 💡 Integrate into maths rotations with students taking turns running the slides
• 💡 Add mini whiteboards for students to show answers in real time
• 💡 Use props (pirate hats, treasure tokens) to add excitement and engagement
• 💡 Reinforce vocabulary like “tally,” “numeral,” and “ten frame” during gameplay

Top Teacher Tips:

• 💛 Model each type of number representation before starting the race
• 💛 Allow students to rotate roles: clue reader, answer caller, and ship mover
• 💛 Use a classroom display chart to track team wins over time
• 💛 Encourage full-class participation by allowing teams to discuss before answering
• 💛 Replay favourite rounds as a fast finisher or class reward activity

Pirate Sea Race: Numbers to 20 POWERPOINT is a high-energy, curriculum-aligned resource that turns early number practice into an exciting classroom adventure. Your students will love setting sail while sharpening their numeracy skills!