WHAT ARE ORDINAL NUMBERS AND HOW DO I TEACH THEM TO KINDERGARTENERS?

Ordinal numbers are numbers (or words) used to explain the position (or order) of objects in a sequence. Examples are first (1st), second (2nd), third (3rd), and so on. Ordinal numbers can be taught to kindergarteners in a variety of ways:

1. By Using Them: Line up students in a class or different colored bear counters on a table. Point to each student or bear and explain their position in the line.
2. With Worksheets: Once students have been introduced to ordinal numbers, you can give them practice using the worksheets on this page!
3. With Manipulatives: Give students different-sized items, and have them organize them by size. Then, have them tell you their position in line.
4. With Games: Create a scavenger hunt where students have to find objects in a certain order.
5. Through Books:

• • “Arithmechicks Find Their Place” by Ann Marie Stephens
  • “Henry the Fourth” by Stuart J. Murphy

Make sure you give your students plenty of practice with ordinal numbers, using the ideas above!

WHAT ARE SOME FUN ACTIVITIES OR GAMES TO HELP KINDERGARTENERS LEARN ORDINAL NUMBERS?

1. Musical Leap Frog: This combines leapfrog with musical chairs. Line students up for a game of leapfrog with a twist. Have the last child in line begin leaping when you turn on music. Shut the music off at random, and make all the students stop leaping. The last student in line is out. The game continues until one child remains. Tip: each time a student gets out let them control the music.
2. Tell the Story Back: Read a fun story, like “Goldilocks and the Three Bears.” List the main details of the story (either in written form or through pictures) and have the students tell you what happened first, second, and third.