Counting Backward

Counting Backward

Counting Backward for IB PYP Grade 1 Mathematics (ages 6–7): learners work on saying the number that comes before, counting backward from 20 and then 100 and using a number line to count back.

Counting Backward in IB PYP Grade 1 Mathematics

Counting Backward is part of IB PYP Grade 1 Mathematics, within Counting. At this emerging stage (ages 6–7), learners work on saying the number that comes before, counting backward from 20 and then 100 and using a number line to count back.

PYP learning is inquiry-based: children explore ideas through questions, play and real-life examples, so worksheets and games here are designed to be short, clear and encouraging.

What learners practise

  • Saying the number that comes before
  • Counting backward from 20 and then 100
  • Using a number line to count back
  • Spotting mistakes in a backward count

For students

Work through the worksheets and interactive activities at your own pace. Check your answers, then redo anything that felt tricky and explain each answer in your own words.

For parents

Sit with your child for the first few questions and ask “how do you know?”. Praise effort and keep sessions short.

For teachers

Use counting backward activities as a starter, homework or retrieval practice, and mix free and premium resources to differentiate.

Study tip

Little and often beats cramming: ten focused questions a day will build more fluency than one long session at the weekend.

Quick answers

Who is the Counting Backward page for?

It is for IB PYP Grade 1 Mathematics learners, typically aged 6–7, and for the parents and teachers who support them.

Are counting backward resources free?

Many are. Each resource shows a clear Free or price label, so you can start with the free ones and add premium resources when you need more practice.

How should I use these resources?

Pick one resource, complete it without help first, then check and correct. Repeating this little and often is more effective than one long session.

Keep exploring

Counting