Students in the same grade — but all at different math levels? We’ve been there. Differentiating math instruction can be tricky, but it doesn’t have to be time-consuming.
That’s why we created the Small Math Groups Kit Freebie — four engaging, hands-on activities that are easy to prep and perfect for 1st and 2nd grade small groups. These activities build math skills and fine motor strength.
Grab your FREE download below, then scroll down to see how each activity works!
Setting Up Intervention Boxes for Math Groups
Check out this post for the best tips for small group organization. Plus, it includes an Amazon shopping list for all the supplies needed for small group intervention boxes.
Free Math Activity #1: Four Square
How to Play Four Square
Yes, the favorite playground game is now a classroom activity! Kids bounce a ball into a “four square” mat labeled with:
- Base Ten Value
- Place Value
- Expanded Form
- Word Form
Call out a number (like 132), and students bounce the ball into a square—then fill in the correct form. Use a dry erase pocket to reuse again and again!
Free Math Activity #2: Place Value Popsicles
How to Use Place Value Popsicles
To prep:
- Write digits 0–9 on popsicle sticks
- Label clothespins with “100,” “10,” and “1”
Students build 3-digit numbers and clip the correct values to match. Then write in expanded form to double check!
Free Math Activity #3: Addition Beads
How to Use Addition Beads
Just twist a pipe cleaner into a circle with two ends.
- Add one bead to each end for your addends
- Recite the math fact aloud or write it down
Use this simple tool for hands-on addition with built-in fine motor practice!
Free Math Activity#4: Subtraction Smash
How to Play Subtraction Smash
Give students a subtraction fact.
- Roll play-doh into small balls for the first number
- Line them up on a number line
- Smash away the second number to subtract!
GET THIS FREEBIE!
It’s hands-on subtraction practice they won’t forget.
Try these free math activities below.
If you’re looking for even more ways to make math practice fun, take a look at
This looks like a lovely sensory activity where the pupils can physically see what numbers they have counted and don’t lose their place on the number line. A win- win! Fantastic!
Can’t wait to try these!
I love how you think like a kid and still keep them learning in fun ways.
I am super excited about having these freebies and my students will be even more excited 😊
I would like to get the freebie: 4 free math group activities.
I complete the form and click the button to “send these to me” and it doesn’t seem to be working.
Please advise.
Hi Jennifer!
You can find these math activities here: https://luckylittlelearners.com/math-small-group-kit-freebie/
Please let us know if you have further questions, have a great day!
Bailey J.
Lucky Little Learners