Teaching Odd and Even Numbers: Patterns to Properties

24 February, 2025

Teaching odd and even numbers is an essential part of early mathematics education. Understanding the difference between these numbers helps students develop a strong foundation for concepts such as divisibility rules, prime numbers, and number patterns. There are many effective ways to introduce and reinforce these concepts in the classroom. In this article, we’ll explore what makes a number odd or even and share some of our favourite strategies and resources for teaching odd and even numbers.

What Are Odd & Even Numbers?

An odd number is any whole number that cannot be divided evenly by 2. There will always be a remainder of 1. For example, 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9 are odd numbers because they cannot be divided by 2 without leaving a remainder.

An even number is any whole number that can be divided evenly by 2, with no remainder. Examples of even numbers include 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10, as they can be split into two equal groups. Zero is also classified as an even number.

Teaching Odd and Even: Activities & Worksheets

Before explicitly teaching odd and even number rules, allow students to explore and discover patterns for themselves. Hands-on activities help students develop a deeper understanding of the concept.

Use Manipulatives

Have students use manipulatives (counters, toys, etc.) to represent odd and even numbers. Grouping collections of objects into pairs is a great way to show to help students see that some numbers (odd numbers) will have one left over without a partner, while others (even numbers) can be divided evenly into two groups.

Real-Life Examples

A great way to make teaching odd and even numbers more meaningful is by connecting them to real-world examples. Encouraging students to recognise odd and even numbers in everyday life helps reinforce their understanding.

• House Numbers: Many streets follow a pattern where even numbers are on one side and odd numbers are on the other. Discuss why this system is used and how it helps with organisation.
• Dinner Sets: Plates and cutlery are often sold in even-numbered sets, such as four or six. Why do manufacturers group items in even numbers? (This can also lead in to discussions about symmetry)
• The Odd One Out: Can your class crack the case of the missing socks? Where do they disappear to in the wash? This relatable mystery is a great way to introduce the difference between odd and even numbers.

Ten Frames

Use ten frames to highlight the idea of having ‘one left over’. Check out one of our Odd and Even Ten Frame worksheets.

‘A Roll of the Dice’ Whole Class Game

In this whole class game, students guess whether the roll of a die will show and even number or an odd number. Students who guess incorrectly sit down, the rest of the class moves on to the next round and the game repeats until there is a winner (last student standing). Assign poses for students to use to show whether their guess is ‘even’ or ‘odd. For example, holding one arm in the air for a guess of ‘odd’ and two arms for a guess of ‘even’.

Number Boards

Give students a 100 board and have them use different colours to highlight odd and even numbers. For example, colour odd numbers in blue and even numbers in yellow. Lead a discussion about the patterns created on the board. Ask students whether they think the pattern will continue for larger numbers. Will the number 104 be coloured yellow or blue? How do you know?

Odd and Even Number Worksheets

After giving students opportunities to explore odd and even numbers using hands-on manipulatives, worksheets can be a good way of consolidating and extending their understanding. Check out some odd and even number worksheets below, or visit our Odd & Even Numbers page for more.

Odd and Even Numbers Game

A fun a simple board game. Practise identifying odd and even numbers in this race along a river board game.

Exploring Properties of Odd and Even Numbers

Teaching odd and even numbers isn’t just about identifying them—it’s also about understanding the patterns that emerge when we add or subtract them. For example:

• Odd + Odd = Even – Adding two odd numbers always results in an even number.
• Even + Even = Even – The sum of two even numbers is always even.
• Odd + Even = Odd – Mixing an odd and an even number results in an odd sum.
• Even – Odd = Odd – Subtracting an odd number from an even number gives an odd result.

Helping students recognise these patterns when performing different operations builds number sense and strengthens their mathematical reasoning. Encourage discussions about why these rules hold true—why does adding two odd numbers always give an even result? Why does subtracting an odd number from an even number always leave an odd number? Exploring these questions makes teaching odd and even numbers more engaging and meaningful.

Properties of Odd & Even Numbers Worksheets

It is important that students establish a strong understanding of the differences between odd and even numbers before they progress to more complex concepts. These strategies, resources and activities are great tools for helping students do just that. Visit our Odd & Even Numbers page for more.