Count to 10 may be the most utilized “In a Pinch” activity I use with students. It’s a surprisingly challenging game that serves as a great icebreaker, a brain break, and even an excellent closing activity for those who do Classroom Circles. This activity not only fosters teamwork and communication but also encourages strategic thinking.
Here’s How to Play:
Get Ready! Students can either stand or sit for this. It works great in a circle!
Explain the Challenge: The goal is to count from 1 to 10 out loud, but randomly. Each student contributes one number at a time. Sounds simple, right? Not so fast!
The Rules:
- If two students say a number simultaneously, the count must start over from 1.
- Students can say a number whenever they feel it’s the right moment, but they cannot say two consecutive numbers.
- NO COMMUNICATION! No verbal or non-verbal cues. If it happens, the count restarts at 1.
Starting the Game: Tell students you will say the word “Go!” to start the game. Your role is to be the referee. If there’s a violation of any rule, call out, “Reset!” and a new round begins.
Variations & Challenges:
- Compete across multiple classes if you see different groups daily. Give your class up to 12 chances to succeed and track how many rounds it takes them. If they don’t make it to 10 (which often happens at first), record their highest number as a benchmark for future attempts.
- Add a twist by counting to the number of people in the classroom instead of stopping at 10. Or, raise the challenge to Count to 15!
- Try counting to 10 in different languages for an extra challenge!
This game is also a blast with adults. Try it in a faculty or department meeting!
-Edtomorrow Team