Times Tables
1 times table skip-counting practice
Count forwards and backwards in 1s with number lines, movement games and call-and-response practice.
Quick answer
Skip-counting in 1s means counting forwards or backwards by ones, like 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or 5, 4, 3, 2, 1. It's the first step to learning multiplication tables.Learning outcome
By the end of this page, you will be able to count forwards and backwards in 1s from any number, and understand that skip-counting by 1s is the same as counting normally. Success signs:- You can count from 0 to 20 by 1s
- You can count backwards from 10 to 0 by 1s
- You know that counting in 1s is the same as counting normally
- You can use skip-counting to help with addition and subtraction
Why this matters
Skip-counting in 1s is the foundation for all multiplication tables. It helps you understand number patterns, builds number sense, and makes learning bigger times tables easier. You already do this when you count your fingers, steps, or toys. In games like football or video games, you count scores, lives, or coins using this skill. It's also useful for telling time, measuring, and planning your day.How it works
Counting in 1s means you add 1 each time to get the next number. If you start at 3, you count: 3, 4, 5, 6, 7. If you start at 10 and go backwards, you count: 10, 9, 8, 7, 6. When you skip-count by 1s, you're just counting normally. It's like walking one step at a time. The 1 times table is special because it always gives you the same number you started with.Examples you can see
Here are some ways to practice counting in 1s: Using your hands: Hold up one finger, then two fingers, then three fingers, and so on. Count each finger as you raise it. Number line counting: Draw a line with numbers from 0 to 10. Start at 3 and move along the line, saying each number: 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10. Backwards counting: Start at 8 and count backwards: 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, 0. Counting objects: Count 1 toy, then 2 toys, then 3 toys, and so on. You can use blocks, pencils, or even your shoes. 1 times table facts:| 1 × 0 | 1 × 1 | 1 × 2 | 1 × 3 | 1 × 4 | 1 × 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 |
| 1 × 6 | 1 × 7 | 1 × 8 | 1 × 9 | 1 × 10 | 1 × 11 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 |
| 1 × 12 |
|---|
| 12 |
Try it as a mini adventure
Adventure: The Number Trail You are on a treasure hunt in a magical forest. You need to find the secret number by following a path. Each step on the path gives you a new number. 1st time: Start at 0. Take 1 step forward to get to 1. 2nd time: Take 1 more step to get to 2. 3rd time: Take 1 more step to get to 3. 4th time: Take 1 more step to get to 4. 5th time: Take 1 more step to get to 5. 6th time: Take 1 more step to get to 6. 7th time: Take 1 more step to get to 7. 8th time: Take 1 more step to get to 8. 9th time: Take 1 more step to get to 9. 10th time: Take 1 more step to get to 10. 11th time: Take 1 more step to get to 11. 12th time: Take 1 more step to get to 12. You found the treasure! The secret number was 12. Now you can count forwards in 1s from 0 to 12. Backwards adventure: Now go back to the start and count backwards from 12 to 0. 12th time: Start at 12. Take 1 step backwards to get to 11. 11th time: Take 1 more step to get to 10. 10th time: Take 1 more step to get to 9. 9th time: Take 1 more step to get to 8. 8th time: Take 1 more step to get to 7. 7th time: Take 1 more step to get to 6. 6th time: Take 1 more step to get to 5. 5th time: Take 1 more step to get to 4. 4th time: Take 1 more step to get to 3. 3rd time: Take 1 more step to get to 2. 2nd time: Take 1 more step to get to 1. 1st time: Take 1 more step to get to 0. Great job! You have mastered counting backwards in 1s.Common mistakes
- Mistake: Skipping numbers when counting forwards or backwards.
Why it happens: Children might rush or get distracted.
Fix: Count slowly and clearly. Use your fingers or a number line to help. - Mistake: Forgetting to say "0" when starting to count.
Why it happens: Children might think 0 is not a number.
Fix: Remind them that 0 is a number and it's the starting point. - Mistake: Counting backwards from 1 and getting confused.
Why it happens: The concept of going backwards can be tricky.
Fix: Practice with small numbers first, like counting from 5 to 0. - Mistake: Thinking that skip-counting by 1s is different from counting normally.
Why it happens: Children might not see the connection.
Fix: Explain that skip-counting by 1s is just counting in order.
Parent and carer guide
Counting in 1s is the first step to learning multiplication tables. Here's how to help your child: How to help in 5-10 minutes:- Count together from 0 to 20 forwards and backwards
- Use everyday objects like toys or snacks to count in 1s
- Play a game: say a number, then count 5 more numbers in 1s
- Use a number line or counting chart to help visualise
- Encourage your child to say numbers clearly and slowly
- "Let's count together from 3 to 10"
- "Can you count backwards from 8 to 0?"
- "You're doing great! Count one more"
- "This is the same as normal counting"
- Children might skip numbers or get confused at first
- They may not know all the numbers right away
- It's normal to need practice and repetition
Practice questions
- Count forwards from 0 to 10 in 1s. What numbers do you say?
- Count backwards from 10 to 0 in 1s. What numbers do you say?
- Start at 5. Count 6 more numbers in 1s. What is the last number?
- Start at 12. Count 4 numbers backwards in 1s. What is the last number?
- What is 1 × 7? How does this connect to counting in 1s?
- 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
- 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, 0
- 11
- 8
- 7. This is the same as counting 7 times in 1s, starting from 0.
FAQ
Why do we need to learn to count in 1s?
Counting in 1s helps us understand how numbers work. It's the foundation for learning all multiplication tables and helps with addition and subtraction.
How can I practice counting in 1s at home?
You can count your steps, count toys, use a number line, or play games like "Count to 20" with your child.
Is counting in 1s the same as counting normally?
Yes! Counting in 1s is just normal counting. When you count 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, you are skip-counting in 1s.
What age should my child know how to count in 1s?
Most children can count in 1s from 0 to 10 by age 4-5. By age 6-7, they should be able to count to 20.
How can I make counting in 1s more fun?
Try counting while walking, dancing, clapping, or singing songs. You can also use games, apps, or apps that help with counting.