What does counting backward mean?
Counting backward means saying number words in reverse order. Each time you count backward by one, you say the number that comes just before the number you said.
Start at 5 and count backward to 0: “Five, four, three, two, one, zero.”
Follow the arrows to count from 5 down to 0. Each number is one less than the number before it.
The numbers get smaller until you reach zero.
Point to each number as you say it. Start at 5 and follow the arrows to the left until you reach 0.
Count backward with objects
Objects can help you understand a countdown. Start with a group, then take away one object each time you say the next number.
Start with four stars. Take away one star at a time as you count backward.
Take away one each time.
Say, “Four, three, two, one, zero.” At zero, no stars are left.
Use safe toys, counters, or drawings. Move one object away for each step in the countdown.
Say one less each time
When you count backward by one, the next number is one less than the number before it. For example, one less than 12 is 11.
Start at 12. Say 11 next, then 10: “Twelve, eleven, ten.”
Do not skip a number. After 10 comes 9, and after 9 comes 8.
Understand what zero means
Zero means none. It is the number you reach at the end when you count backward from 1.
If there are no objects in the tray, there are zero objects.
Zero is a number, too. After 1, say 0, and then stop.
Count backward from 20 to 0
When you count backward from 20 to 0, you say one less each time. Follow the arrows to move from a bigger number to the number just before it, until you reach zero.
Look at the numbers from 0 to 20. Follow the arrows to count backward from 20 to 0.
Start at 20 and move left one number at a time. Each number is one less than the number before it.
Keep counting until you reach zero.
Point to each number as you count. Remember, the arrows point left because you are counting backward from 20 to 0.
Practice a countdown
Use the same steps each time: start at 20, say one less, keep the numbers in order, and stop at 0.
| Step | What to do |
|---|---|
| 1 | Start at 20. |
| 2 | Say 19, then 18. |
| 3 | Keep counting backward one number at a time. |
| 4 | Finish at 0. |
Try saying the whole countdown aloud: “Twenty, nineteen, eighteen…” until you reach “zero.”
Practice for a short time each day. If you forget a number, start again at 20 and point to each number as you say it.
Notes for teachers
This resource is designed to provide clear explanations, examples, and practice for learners of different needs and levels of support. It may be used for whole-class instruction, guided practice, independent learning, review, homework, or additional reinforcement at home.