Ten in the Bed
This numbers 1–10 ESL lesson develops forward and backward counting with the Ten in the Bed song. Children count fingers, toys and classmates, match bears to numbers and jump to number cards. They complete a reverse-counting worksheet and draw themselves joining the playful bedtime scene.
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Lesson format
2 × 45 minutes
Level
Starter
Age group
Ages 4–6
Main focus
Speaking first
What students will learn
Lesson flow
Children count fingers, toys and classmates, then sing along to a counting song and match bears to numbers on a worksheet, using number cards for a jumping game. The second lesson introduces the Ten in the Bed story song, counting backward as bears roll off the bed, followed by a reverse-counting worksheet and a drawing activity where children draw themselves jumping on the bed.
Target language
- • Numbers 1-10
- • Counting forward and backward
- • 'What number comes after...?'
- • 'How many?'
Key vocabulary
- ten
- nine
- eight
- seven
- six
- five
- four
- three
- two
- one
Speaking questions students answer
- • Can you count to 10?
- • What number comes after 6?
- • How many bears are there?
- • Can you count backward from 10?
- • What number is missing?
Recommended teaching contexts
Why this lesson works
The lesson follows a clear progression: Count from 1 to 10 with the Ten in the Bed song, match numbers to bears on a worksheet, draw themselves jumping on the bed. Teachers can open the materials and start immediately, while students move from supported vocabulary practice to purposeful spoken English.