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Numbers · Grade 2

Odd and Even Numbers Worksheets Within 20

A number is even when every object has a partner. An odd number leaves one object without a partner.

6 problemsAnswer key includedFree printableA4 & US Letter
Generate & printSee the worked example

Make pairs to test a number

Put eight counters into pairs. Four pairs use every counter, so eight is even. Try nine counters next. Four pairs leave one counter without a partner, so nine is odd. Count the objects first and use each object exactly once.

8 = 4 + 4

Place one counter from each pair in a left-hand group and its partner in a right-hand group. Both groups contain four counters. An even total can be written as two equal whole-number addends.

Draw pairs without losing count

For 13, draw thirteen dots, then circle pairs. Six pairs use twelve dots and one dot remains. Count every dot, including the unpaired one, to check that the drawing still shows thirteen.

If a child says 13 is even because they drew six circles: ask what each circle contains. Six pairs account for twelve objects; the extra object is what makes thirteen odd.

Write equal addends

For 12, write 6 + 6. The sum is twelve and the addends match. Although 5 + 7 also equals twelve, those addends are not equal. For an odd number such as 11, follow the instruction and write “odd.” This activity uses whole-number addends.

Say what the answer means

For “Is there one left over?”, an odd number needs “Yes, one is left over.” An even number needs “No, all objects are paired.” A correct sentence is only part of the check: the drawing must contain the right number of objects and use each object in just one pair.

Use the pattern after explaining it

Moving from eight to nine adds one unpaired object. Adding one more makes a new pair, giving ten. Let the child continue this pattern with counters before using the last digit as a shortcut.

About this practice

Each sheet has two classification questions, two draw-pairs questions, and two equal-addend questions. Numbers are from 1 through 20. A number may reappear in a different activity, and a set does not guarantee an equal number of odd and even examples.

No object pictures are supplied: children draw their own pairs in the working space. The answer key gives the original written answers; an adult checks the drawings. Zero and numbers above twenty are outside this worksheet's range.

Make a practice set

Choose what to print. Selecting both shows the answer key on screen and prints the questions followed by the answers.

Print materials

After the practice

Check that every drawn object is used once. Ask how pairing connects an even total to two equal addends.

More about numbers · Grade 2 worksheets

Grade 2 selected skill connection: 2.OA.C.3. See the Common Core grade guidance. This worksheet does not cover every requirement in the standard.