Make early number learning fast, fun, and hands-on with Subitising 5 in a Row – a simple yet powerful game to help students practise subitising numbers 1 to 6.

This resource is specifically designed to strengthen early numeracy foundations by encouraging students to instantly recognise small quantities in both standard and non-standard formats. Subitising, or the ability to “see” how many items are in a set without counting, is an essential building block in mathematical fluency. Through repeated exposure in a playful format, students gain confidence and accuracy with number recognition, pattern awareness, and quick mental processing.

Subitising 5 in a Row uses a game-based approach to reinforce these skills. The game boards include a mix of dot patterns, dice configurations, and other arrangements that challenge students to identify and match visual number representations with numbers rolled on a die. Best of all, the gameplay is familiar – players simply roll the die, match a subitised image on their board, and try to get five counters in a row!

Key Learning Outcomes

• ✅ Instantly recognise quantities from 1 to 6 without counting
• ✅ Identify standard and non-standard subitising patterns
• ✅ Match dice rolls to visual representations of numbers
• ✅ Build fluency and confidence with number concepts through gameplay
• ✅ Develop turn-taking and strategic thinking skills during partner games

What’s Included

Printable game boards featuring standard and non-standard subitising visuals

Instructions for how to play the game

Materials Needed

Printed and (optionally laminated) game boards

Six-sided dice

Counters or small markers

Zip-lock bags or folders for storage

How to Use

1. Print the game boards – choose whether to use the standard or non-standard subitising versions depending on your class needs.
2. Laminate the boards if you plan to use them repeatedly in groups or rotations.
3. Pair up students and provide each one with a game board, a dice, and a set of counters.
4. Players take turns rolling the dice and identifying an image on their board that matches the number rolled.
5. If a match is found, they place a counter on the corresponding space. If no match is available, their turn is skipped or repeated, depending on your classroom rules.
6. The first player to get five counters in a row – horizontally, vertically, or diagonally – is the winner.

Ideas for Classroom Use

• 💡 Use as a warm-up activity before numeracy lessons to activate number sense
• 💡 Add to your maths rotations for small-group targeted practice
• 💡 Create a station where students can self-manage gameplay using printed instructions
• 💡 Challenge students to explain how they “knew” the number without counting – great for developing metacognitive thinking!

Top Teacher Tips

• 💛 Use different coloured counters for each player so you can easily review gameplay and assess understanding
• 💛 Store boards, dice, and counters in reusable pouches or tubs for quick set-up
• 💛 Introduce a sand timer for an added challenge or to build automaticity under timed conditions
• 💛 Encourage mathematical dialogue – have students share which formations were easiest or trickiest and why

Subitising 5 in a Row transforms number recognition into a collaborative and strategic experience – helping students visualise quantities, make connections, and build fluency with every roll of the dice.