ZYX and ABC

My webmaster (The Amazing Alex May) created a video with one of my silly songs where I sing "The Alphabet" backwards. Those of you who have taught your class this song know how the kids get a kick out of singing it. (I've even been known to surprise my adult friends by singing the alphabet backwards!) Those of you who have never done this song might think, “That’s stupid!”

The idea for singing the alphabet backwards originally came from a teacher who said she used it during transitions to focus the children’s attention. For example, while waiting in the hall she would challenge the students to say the ABC’s backwards. Or, she’d make a game of getting the room cleaned up while they said the alphabet backwards. It’s interesting that brain research suggests saying the alphabet backwards or counting backwards is a good brain exercise.

The bottom line is it’s free and I hope it’s fun for your students!

http://bit.ly/drjean_alphaforwards

Alphabet Forwards and Backwards
A B C D E F G
H I J K L M N O P
Q R S T U V
W X Y and Z
Now, I’ve said my ABC’s.
Next time sing them backwards with me.
Z Y X W V U T
S R Q P O N M
L K J I H G
F E D C B A.
Now, I’ve said my ZYX’s,
Bet that’s not what you expected!

Country Countdown 1-20
You can also practice counting forwards and backwards.  Why?  This will help them understand one more, one less, etc.

Tell the kids to put on their cowboy and cowgirl boots and hats before you begin.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 (Heel tap left and right as you count.)

Turn around and count back down. (Turn around.)
20 19 18 …..

https://youtu.be/GOXlAgfqq4A