Grades K–1
Dice Dots Memory Match
Count the dots like on a die and find the number. Kids learn to see 5 and 6 without counting.
Classroom activity · Matching and memory games
Shape Shadows Memory Match
Match each outline shape to its shadow. Sixteen cards with no reading at all, for the youngest players.
- Grade level
- Grades K–1
- Time
- About 15 minutes
- Answer key
- Not needed: answers vary
- Kids practice
- Memory, Matching, Taking turns
What kids do
“Cut out the cards. Play memory: a match is a shape and its dark shadow.”
Printed on the sheet:
- How to play: cut out the cards and mix them up face down. Take turns flipping two. A match? Keep it and go again. The player with the most pairs wins.
Teacher tip
Have kids trace the outline with a finger to match the shadow.
How to use it
- Print on card stock so cards do not show through.
- Teach the memory game routine: flip two, keep matches, then it is the next player’s turn.
- Use it as a center, an early finisher choice, an indoor recess activity or a sub day page.
Watch for
Cards that show through the paper. Print on card stock or color the backs.
Talk about it
- Which match was the hardest?
- What would you change to make it harder?
Take it further
Have kids make new cards for the game.
US Letter, prints well in black and white. Free for home and classroom use: print as many copies as you need.
More matching and memory games
1st grade
Doubles Memory Match
Doubles facts from 2 + 2 to 9 + 9 and their sums. Doubles make all the other facts easier.
Grades 1–2
Subtraction Facts Memory Match
Eight subtraction facts from 9 − 7 to 17 − 8 and their differences, as a cut-apart memory game.
Grades 1–2
Clock Memory Match
Match eight clock faces to their digital times: o’clock, half past and quarter past and to.
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