I always feel like numbers do not get enough practice in my classroom. So when numbers are taught at the start of ASL 1, I always incorporate this game that I simply call “Tens.” The game can be played in any language classroom. The game is easy, no-prep, and gets the students out of the desks.
Step 1
Clear a space in the classroom so students can form a circle and see each other. Circle the students up in any order. It really does not matter. Determine who will go first. You can ask who is the oldest or the youngest in class. You can choose a color of clothing to go first. You can take a volunteer. Whatever you decide to do, select a person to be number 1.
Step 2
The first person to go will sign the number 1. Then the next person will sign number 2. This continues in the circle signing each consecutive number until you get to number 10. The person who signs the number 10 is out. They sit on the floor until the next round. They can help the teacher be the judge so they are still engaged and follow along. The last person left in the circle is the winner.
Rules
There are very few rules to this game. But here they are:
- Students must sign the number accurtely
- No one can help provide the correct sign
- Students must know what number they are on, they can’t ask
If the person signing gives the wrong number or doesn’t know the handshape, they are out. This means the person that follows them is responsible for knowing that number. Meaning if student A is supposed to sign 5 and they do not know the sign or do not know what number they are on, they are out and the student after them should sign number 5. This keeps students paying attention and not counting ahead to where they might be. In other words, 5 can’t be skipped it must get signed accurately.
If a student doesn’t follow one of the rules they are out.
Alternatives to the Game
This game does not have to be signed only with numbers 1 – 10. You can also play this game modifying the number requirements.
- Counting by 10s = any number like 10, 20, 30 is the out number.
- Counting by 5s = any number like 5, 10, 15, 20 is the out number.
- Any number including the number X is out (like 3 = 13, 23, 33)
Again, this is a simple, quick, and easy way to practice numbers. You can vary the game to practice denominations you are working on.
Find more fun ways to practice numbers with these already created ideas.
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