Is it a double?: what children learn
A double is two equal groups, such as 2 and 2. Two groups of different sizes are not a double.
Suggested Kindergarten enrichment for recognizing doubles. Common Core does not set a doubles standard in Kindergarten, so this game makes no standards claim.
How to play
Sort the cards into the right groups. Tap a card, then its group. You can also drag a card, or press the number on its group. Each game has 3 rounds with no timer. Every card is checked as soon as you place it: a card in the wrong group comes back with a hint, and you get a point for each card you place right first time. For a quicker go, choose Quick quiz: 8 multiple-choice questions in 240 seconds (choose Relaxed for more time).
Step by step
- Play together. Sit with your child and read the words on screen aloud. Let them do the tapping and dragging.
- Look at both sides. Point to each side of the line and say how many.
- Same or different?. If both sides match, it is a double.
- Say the total. For a double, say what it makes: "3 and 3 make 6".
Worked examples
Example 1: 3 and 3
Working: Both sides have 3 dots. They are the same.
Answer: A double
Example 2: 2 and 3
Working: One side has 2, the other has 3.
Answer: Not a double
Example 3: 5 and 5
Working: Five on each side, like two hands.
Answer: A double
Common mistakes and how to fix them
- Looking at only one side Point to each side in turn before deciding.
- Thinking any pair is a double A double needs both sides to be the same.
- Mixing up the order 3 and 1 is the same as 1 and 3: still not a double.
Activities to try at home
- Use two hands to show doubles: 2 and 2, 3 and 3.
- Look for doubles on dominoes.
- Share toys equally between two teddies and see if both have the same.
Ideas for the classroom
- Use mirrors with counters to make doubles.
- Paint ladybugs with the same number of spots on each wing.
- Play a doubles snap game with dot cards.
Free printable game and worksheet
The free printable starts with a game sheet, such as a color-by-answer picture, an answer maze or a secret-code joke, followed by a worksheet. Both use the same checked questions as the online game, and the answers are on the last page. Print it, or save it as a PDF from your browser’s print menu.
Open the free printable game and worksheet
Frequently asked questions
How should I choose this game for my learner?
Suggested Kindergarten enrichment for recognizing doubles. Common Core does not set a doubles standard in Kindergarten, so this game makes no standards claim.
Why sort, not add?
Spotting that parts are equal comes before quick recall of double facts.
Is there a timer?
Not in the main game: children sort at their own pace. The separate Quick quiz is optional and has a long, gentle timer; skip it with younger or less confident children.