About this template
Bring the excitement of Countdown into your classroom with this two-part interactive game template.
This game is inspired by the British TV show Countdown and has two interactive screens: one for number challenges and one for word-building with letters. Perfect for math warm-ups, literacy stations, or end-of-day brain games.
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Looking for examples or want to play along with the actual show? You can watch clips of each round in action here for free!
How it works
Round 1: Numbers
The aim of the game is to reach the target number (which you can generate using the three number Randomizers) using the 6 different numbers provided. Students use addition, subtraction, multiplication, or division to get as close as possible to the target within the 30 second musical countdown.
Once you've generated all the numbers, press the play button on the Video background and the countdown will start. Once it ends, ask which students got to the number and for them to show their working!
note:
This resource is especially suited for upper elementary to lower secondary students but can be adapted for a variety of age groups and ability levels. Ideal for whole-class play, small group stations, or competitive team challenges!
Round 2: Letters
The aim of the game is to create the longest possible word using the 9 random letters (which you can generate using the letter Randomizers). Students can only use each letter once and must follow standard English spelling rules.
Once you’ve generated all 9 letters, press the play button on the video background and the 30-second musical countdown will begin. When the timer ends, ask students to share their words and check for the longest and most accurate one!