Scoop up some place value fun with the Place Value Ice Cream Game! This playful and practical resource supports students in developing their number knowledge through an engaging, hands-on matching activity that brings the concept of two-digit numbers to life.

Each cone represents a number between 0 and 99, and students are tasked with matching four different ice cream scoops that show the same number in a variety of formats-using base ten blocks, expanded form, number words, and numerals. It’s a sweet way to build fluency with number representations while supporting visual and tactile learners.

The Place Value Ice Cream Game is ideal for small group rotations, independent consolidation, or even partner-based learning. With minimal prep required, simply photocopy the pieces onto coloured card for a long-lasting resource that’s both bright and budget-friendly.

Key Learning Outcomes:

• ✅ Recognise and build two-digit numbers using place value knowledge
• ✅ Match numbers represented in various formats: base ten, expanded form, and words
• ✅ Strengthen understanding of tens and ones in numerals 0–99
• ✅ Encourage independent thinking and number recognition
• ✅ Engage learners with hands-on materials and collaborative play

What’s Included:

• 24 ice cream cone cards numbered from 0 to 99
• 96 scoop cards featuring:
  • Base ten blocks
  • Expanded form
  • Number words
  • Standard numerals
• Printable teacher guide for easy implementation

Materials Needed:

• Coloured card or paper for printing the cones and scoops
• Scissors
• Ziplock bags, small tubs, or envelopes for storage
• Optional: laminator for durability and reuse

How to Use:

1. Print out the 24 cone cards and the full set of scoop cards.
2. Photocopy onto coloured card to make sorting easier and save on colour printing.
3. Introduce or review different number formats with your class.
4. Students select a cone and search for the four scoops that match the number.
5. Encourage students to explain their reasoning as they match different formats.
6. Use as a self-check activity, pair challenge, or station rotation.

Ideas for Classroom Use:

• 💡 Include as a numeracy station during your place value unit.
• 💡 Use for intervention groups needing extra practice with number representation.
• 💡 Set up a class-wide challenge-who can correctly match the most cones in 10 minutes?
• 💡 Have students write a short explanation about each match to integrate writing and maths.
• 💡 Store each cone and its matching scoops in its own envelope for grab-and-go ease.

Top Teacher Tips:

• 💛 Laminate all pieces for long-lasting use and easy cleaning.
• 💛 Use pastel or coloured card to make the scoops pop without using coloured ink.
• 💛 Add Velcro dots or magnets to the back of scoops and cones for vertical surface play.

The Place Value Ice Cream Game offers an engaging and low-prep way to explore place value concepts while making learning feel like play-perfect for early years numeracy!