Support your kinaesthetic learners and build strong number sense with the interactive Place Value & Decimals Number Line Sort. This hands-on activity invites students to place a variety of cards along a number line, reinforcing their understanding of order, equivalence, and numerical relationships across decimals, measurement, and money.

Each of the six included sets contains 30 value cards centred around a different mathematical concept. Students must read and interpret the card values, convert where needed, and place them accurately along a shared number line. This process encourages careful thinking, collaboration, and meaningful mathematical discussion.

Ideal for small group rotations, paired practice, or independent extension, this versatile resource supports a wide range of learners. To differentiate, you can simplify the task by using just 15 cards or extend by combining sets. A reusable printable number line is included, and we recommend printing on thick card or enlarging to A3 for whole-group visibility.

Key Learning Outcomes:

• ✅ Compare and order values involving decimals, money, and measurement
• ✅ Convert between fractions, decimals, and metric units where applicable
• ✅ Develop accuracy when placing values on a number line
• ✅ Strengthen conceptual understanding of place value and number magnitude
• ✅ Engage in group collaboration and mathematical reasoning

What’s Included:

• 6 themed sets of 30 number line cards:
• - Set 1: Place Value (tenths and hundredths)
• - Set 2: Money
• - Set 3: Measurement (mass)
• - Set 4: Measurement (length)
• - Set 5: Measurement (volume)
• - Set 6: Mixed Numerals
• 1 printable number line (reusable across all sets)
• Instructions and tips for classroom implementation

Materials Needed:

• Printed card sets and number line (preferably on thick card)
• Scissors or paper trimmer
• Zip-lock bags or folders to organise sets
• Optional: velcro dots or magnets for display purposes

How to Use:

1. Choose a set based on the topic currently being taught or revised.
2. Print and cut the cards and number line—scale up to A3 if needed.
3. Lay out the number line on the floor or a table and distribute cards among students.
4. Students take turns placing cards in the correct order along the number line, justifying their placement.
5. Check the sequence together and discuss any corrections or conversions made during the task.

Ideas for Classroom Use:

• 💡 Use as part of your maths rotations to consolidate decimals and measurement concepts
• 💡 Display the number line and cards on a whiteboard or wall for a collaborative class challenge
• 💡 Pair students to promote discussion and support varied learning levels
• 💡 Combine sets for a mixed-topic assessment or revision activity
• 💡 Encourage students to create and add their own cards for extra challenge

Top Teacher Tips:

• 💛 Colour-code each set to keep them organised and easy to manage
• 💛 Laminate cards and number lines for durability and long-term use
• 💛 Assign roles in small groups (e.g. reader, placer, checker) to support collaboration
• 💛 Use the task as a pre-assessment to gauge students’ understanding of decimal magnitude

Place Value & Decimals Number Line Sort turns number comparison into an active and strategic task—perfect for building deep mathematical understanding through movement, teamwork, and visual reasoning.

This activity is part of the Place Value and Decimals Workstations PACKAGE.