Morning Meeting: Morning Meeting: Group ActivitiesGroup Activities

Karie AldrichKarie Aldrich

Mathews ElementaryMathews Elementary

SongsSongs

Song- Bang, Bang Choo Choo Song- Bang, Bang Choo Choo TrainTrain

Class: "Bang Bang Choo Choo, train watch ____ Class: "Bang Bang Choo Choo, train watch ____ (name) do his thing."(name) do his thing."Student: "I can’t!" (use a dramatic voice)Student: "I can’t!" (use a dramatic voice)Class: "Why not?"Class: "Why not?"Student: "Because I can’t!" (continue with Student: "Because I can’t!" (continue with dramatic voice)dramatic voice)Class: "Why not?"Class: "Why not?"Student: "Because my back is aching and my Student: "Because my back is aching and my shoes are too tight and my hips are shaking from shoes are too tight and my hips are shaking from the left and to the right!" (use actions to the left and to the right!" (use actions to dramatize) dramatize)

Call to the next student and continue the chant Call to the next student and continue the chant around the circle.around the circle.

Song- Black SocksSong- Black Socks

Black socks, then never get dirty, Black socks, then never get dirty,

The longer I wear them, the stronger The longer I wear them, the stronger they get! they get!

Sometimes, I think I should wash them Sometimes, I think I should wash them

But something inside me keeps saying But something inside me keeps saying ”Not Yet! Not Yet! Not Yet!” ”Not Yet! Not Yet! Not Yet!”

Song- Bo-BoSong- Bo-Bo

Bo bo ski wattin’ tattin’Bo bo ski wattin’ tattin’Ah, ah, boom, boom, boom, boom, boom.Ah, ah, boom, boom, boom, boom, boom.Itty bitty wattin’ tattin bo bo ski wattin’ tattin.Itty bitty wattin’ tattin bo bo ski wattin’ tattin.Bo bo ski wattin’ tattin’ boom.Bo bo ski wattin’ tattin’ boom.1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,101,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10  Players stand in a circle with their right hands in their Players stand in a circle with their right hands in their neighbors left hand. One at a time, going around the circle, neighbors left hand. One at a time, going around the circle, players will slap their neighbors hand with their right hand, players will slap their neighbors hand with their right hand, while singing the song. If on the count of ten the hand is while singing the song. If on the count of ten the hand is slapped, the slappee is out. If the hand is missed, the slapper is slapped, the slappee is out. If the hand is missed, the slapper is out. The point of this game is to eliminate people from the out. The point of this game is to eliminate people from the circle until there is only one person left. When there are only circle until there is only one person left. When there are only two people left, they arm wrestle back and forth to the song two people left, they arm wrestle back and forth to the song until the count of ten. At that point, whoever forces the other until the count of ten. At that point, whoever forces the other down wins. The point of a game/song like this is to take up time down wins. The point of a game/song like this is to take up time while waiting for an activity or meal to start.while waiting for an activity or meal to start.

Chant- BoogaluChant- Boogalu

How To Play:How To Play: Students repeatedly say the following chant Students repeatedly say the following chant and act out different characters each time.and act out different characters each time.Leader: "Let me see your boogalu"Leader: "Let me see your boogalu"Group: "What’s that you say?"Group: "What’s that you say?"Leader: "I said, Let me see your Boogalu.”Leader: "I said, Let me see your Boogalu.”Group: "What’s that you say?"Group: "What’s that you say?"Leader: "I say Oo oo oo oo oo oo oo" (action and a rhythm)Leader: "I say Oo oo oo oo oo oo oo" (action and a rhythm)Group: Repeats chant and actions and rhythm of the leaderGroup: Repeats chant and actions and rhythm of the leader

Repeat the chant with a new leader, or keep the same Repeat the chant with a new leader, or keep the same leader, replacing “boogalu” with another subject. For leader, replacing “boogalu” with another subject. For example:example:Leader: "Let me see your Frankenstein"Leader: "Let me see your Frankenstein""Let me see your beauty queen""Let me see your beauty queen""Let me see your rock star…""Let me see your rock star…"

Song Boom Sha BoomSong Boom Sha Boom Standing in a circle, all players start by clapping their own hands Standing in a circle, all players start by clapping their own hands

together in front of themselves and then clapping hands with the together in front of themselves and then clapping hands with the person on either side of them simultaneously. The players form a person on either side of them simultaneously. The players form a rhythm using the following chant: rhythm using the following chant:

Czechoslovakia, Boom Sha Boom (all clap in rhythm in a circle)Czechoslovakia, Boom Sha Boom (all clap in rhythm in a circle)Yugoslavia, Boom Sha Boom (all clap in rhythm in a circle)Yugoslavia, Boom Sha Boom (all clap in rhythm in a circle)

Let’s get the rhythm of the hands (pause clapping) Let’s get the rhythm of the hands (pause clapping) (all clap three times)(all clap three times)

Let’s get the rhythm of the feet Let’s get the rhythm of the feet (all stamp feet three times)(all stamp feet three times)

Let’s get the rhythm of the arms Let’s get the rhythm of the arms Uh-1, uh-2, uh-3 (raise one arm up, then the other, and then lower Uh-1, uh-2, uh-3 (raise one arm up, then the other, and then lower both)both)

Let’s get the rhythm of the eyes Let’s get the rhythm of the eyes (Bend both arms low to the ground and raise them up as the voice (Bend both arms low to the ground and raise them up as the voice goes from low to high and say, “Whew!”)goes from low to high and say, “Whew!”)

Song- Dum DumSong- Dum Dum Dum-dum-da-da Dum-dum-da-da

Da-dum-dum-da-da Da-dum-dum-da-da Da-dum-dum-da-da-da-daDa-dum-dum-da-da-da-daDa-dum-dum-da-daDa-dum-dum-da-daDa-dum-dum-da-da Da-dum-dum-da-da Da-dum-dum-da-da-da-daDa-dum-dum-da-da-da-daRepeatRepeat

First the first time through the song, pat your hands on your First the first time through the song, pat your hands on your legs twice and then clap your hands twice. Next verse, clap legs twice and then clap your hands twice. Next verse, clap your hands twice while sliding the hands from side to side. your hands twice while sliding the hands from side to side. Third verse, pat your hands on your thighs twice and then Third verse, pat your hands on your thighs twice and then slap your left hand to your right elbow and then right hand slap your left hand to your right elbow and then right hand onto your left elbow. In the words of Mike Salins, make the onto your left elbow. In the words of Mike Salins, make the genie pose. The song should be sung to the same rhythm genie pose. The song should be sung to the same rhythm each verse.each verse.    

Song- My Bonnie Lies over the Song- My Bonnie Lies over the OceanOcean

My bonnie lies over the ocean My bonnie lies over the ocean My bonnie lies over the sea My bonnie lies over the sea My bonnie lies over the ocean My bonnie lies over the ocean Oh bring back my bonnie to me Oh bring back my bonnie to me

Bring back, bring back, Bring back, bring back, Oh bring back my bonnie to me to me Oh bring back my bonnie to me to me Bring back, bring back, Bring back, bring back, Oh bring back my bonnie to me Oh bring back my bonnie to me

With this version you can get everyone to stand up or sit down or With this version you can get everyone to stand up or sit down or put their hands up in the air or down,whatever you want really, put their hands up in the air or down,whatever you want really, every time a word starting with B is sung. So on the first bonnie every time a word starting with B is sung. So on the first bonnie you stand up,and on the second you sit down etc. You can then you stand up,and on the second you sit down etc. You can then make it as complicated as you want by splitting the audience in 2 make it as complicated as you want by splitting the audience in 2 aand having them do the opposite actions to eachother. aand having them do the opposite actions to eachother.

http://www.kididdles.com/lyrics/m033.htmlhttp://www.kididdles.com/lyrics/m033.html

Song-Row, Row, Row Your Song-Row, Row, Row Your BoatBoat

Row, Row, Row Your BoatRow, Row, Row Your Boat

Gently Down the StreamGently Down the Stream

Merrily, Merrily, Merrily, MerrilyMerrily, Merrily, Merrily, Merrily

Life is But a DreamLife is But a Dream

– Each time you sing it through you omit Each time you sing it through you omit one word from the ending until there are one word from the ending until there are no words remaining. no words remaining.

Song- Stay on the Sunny Song- Stay on the Sunny SideSide

Stay on the Sunny Side,Stay on the Sunny Side,

Always on the sunny sideAlways on the sunny side

Stay on the sunny side of life!Stay on the sunny side of life!

You’ll be to blame if we drive you insane, so You’ll be to blame if we drive you insane, so just stay on the sunny side of life!just stay on the sunny side of life!

(for the verses someone tells a riddle and everyone (for the verses someone tells a riddle and everyone groans and the song goes on.)groans and the song goes on.)

http://www.buckskin.org/Resources/Fun/Songs/silly_songs.htmhttp://www.buckskin.org/Resources/Fun/Songs/silly_songs.htm

http://wtsmith.com/rt/songs.htmlhttp://wtsmith.com/rt/songs.html

Song- Waddely AcheeSong- Waddely Achee Waddly acha, waddly acha. Waddly acha, waddly acha.

Doodly do, doodly do. Doodly do, doodly do. Waddly acha, waddly acha. Waddly acha, waddly acha. Doodly do, doodly do. Doodly do, doodly do. Some folks say there isn't much to it; Some folks say there isn't much to it; all you gotta do is doodly do it. all you gotta do is doodly do it. Waddly acha waddly acha. Waddly acha waddly acha. Doodly doodly do hey. Doodly doodly do hey.

Okay, the hand motions are hard to explain but here goes. Okay, the hand motions are hard to explain but here goes. Pat you thighs on the "waddlys". Pat you thighs on the "waddlys". Clap your hands on the "achas". Clap your hands on the "achas". On the "doodlys", put your right hand on your nose and your left On the "doodlys", put your right hand on your nose and your left on your right ear. Your hands and wrists should be crossed. on your right ear. Your hands and wrists should be crossed. On the "doos", reverse that and put your right hand on your left On the "doos", reverse that and put your right hand on your left ear and your left hand on your nose. ear and your left hand on your nose. Finally, during the third line, shuffle your hands on top of each Finally, during the third line, shuffle your hands on top of each other in front of your chest or clap your hands while making them other in front of your chest or clap your hands while making them go from side to side.go from side to side.

http://wtsmith.com/rt/songs.htmlhttp://wtsmith.com/rt/songs.html

Song- Wake upSong- Wake up

"I woke up this morning and I ___________ out of "I woke up this morning and I ___________ out of bed,bed,Shuffled to the kitchen and I got myself fedShuffled to the kitchen and I got myself fedNow I’m going to put something in my headNow I’m going to put something in my headGonna read, gonna write, gonna try with all my Gonna read, gonna write, gonna try with all my mightmightSingin’ doo-wah diddy-diddy dum diddy dum"Singin’ doo-wah diddy-diddy dum diddy dum"(Repeat “doo-wah …” quietly and then loudly)(Repeat “doo-wah …” quietly and then loudly)"All right" (clap on these words)"All right" (clap on these words)

Song- The Wishy- Washy Song- The Wishy- Washy WasherwomanWasherwoman

In the deep dark jungleIn the deep dark jungle

Where nobody goesWhere nobody goes

There’s a wishy-washy There’s a wishy-washy

washerwoman washing her clotheswasherwoman washing her clothes

She goes “Ooh, Ahh, Ooh, AhhShe goes “Ooh, Ahh, Ooh, Ahh

Ooh ahh ahh and a ringy-ding-ding! Ooh ahh ahh and a ringy-ding-ding!

http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=7367904466049183http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=7367904466049183663663

GamesGames

Game- Add ‘em UpGame- Add ‘em Up

How To Play:How To Play: The leader chooses a The leader chooses a current topic of study. A player begins by current topic of study. A player begins by saying, “I am going saying, “I am going (name an activity (name an activity relevant to the topic)relevant to the topic) and I will be looking and I will be looking for for (name specific examples relevant to (name specific examples relevant to the activity/topic)the activity/topic)”. The next player names ”. The next player names her example and the previous players’ her example and the previous players’ examples. Play continues until all players examples. Play continues until all players have had a chance to speak. have had a chance to speak.

Game- AlibiGame- Alibi How to Play:How to Play: One person is chosen to leave the room as the One person is chosen to leave the room as the

Detective. When the person is out of the room, the leader chooses one Detective. When the person is out of the room, the leader chooses one person to be the perpetrator of the mishap and he decides what the person to be the perpetrator of the mishap and he decides what the mishap is to be. Everyone has to think of an alibi for where they were mishap is to be. Everyone has to think of an alibi for where they were when the mishap or crime took place. (E.g., The trash can was knocked when the mishap or crime took place. (E.g., The trash can was knocked over. The person was seen eating an éclair in an art museum.) over. The person was seen eating an éclair in an art museum.)

When the Detective returns, the leader tells her what crime has When the Detective returns, the leader tells her what crime has occurred. The Detective then goes around the circle asking each occurred. The Detective then goes around the circle asking each person for their alibi—“Where were you at the time of the crime?” Each person for their alibi—“Where were you at the time of the crime?” Each player gives an alibi while the detective listens carefully. After the player gives an alibi while the detective listens carefully. After the Detective has gone around the circle once, she goes around a second Detective has gone around the circle once, she goes around a second time in the same order as before, and asks the same question. Each time in the same order as before, and asks the same question. Each person must give the exact same alibi as before except for the student person must give the exact same alibi as before except for the student who has been chosen as the guilty person. The guilty person changes who has been chosen as the guilty person. The guilty person changes their alibi slightly. For example, the first time the guilty person says, “I their alibi slightly. For example, the first time the guilty person says, “I went to the park.” The second time the guilty person says, “I went to went to the park.” The second time the guilty person says, “I went to the pool.” The Detective gets three chances to guess the identity of the pool.” The Detective gets three chances to guess the identity of the criminal. Afterwards, a new Detective is chosen.the criminal. Afterwards, a new Detective is chosen.

Game- All Hit Moon BallGame- All Hit Moon Ball

How To Play:How To Play: All players scatter on a basketball All players scatter on a basketball court or open field. Use a well-inflated beach ball court or open field. Use a well-inflated beach ball as the object of the play. Depending on the as the object of the play. Depending on the group’s size, introduce one or more beach balls. group’s size, introduce one or more beach balls. More beach balls create more challenge for the More beach balls create more challenge for the group. The group’s objective is to hit the ball aloft group. The group’s objective is to hit the ball aloft as many times as possible before the ball strikes as many times as possible before the ball strikes the ground. Depending upon the skill of the group, the ground. Depending upon the skill of the group, you can set goals of increasing numbers of hits you can set goals of increasing numbers of hits (30, 50, 75, 100 and so) to add challenge and (30, 50, 75, 100 and so) to add challenge and incentive for cooperation.incentive for cooperation.

Game- Animal Sounds Game- Animal Sounds MatchMatch

Materials:Materials: Pairs of farm animal picture cards Pairs of farm animal picture cards

How to Play:How to Play: Give each player a card at which Give each player a card at which only he or she looks. To begin, players make the only he or she looks. To begin, players make the sound of the animal on their cards. Players move sound of the animal on their cards. Players move around the circle until they find their match. around the circle until they find their match. When matched, they stop making the sound and When matched, they stop making the sound and stand together until everyone is matched up. At stand together until everyone is matched up. At the conclusion, each pair can make their sound the conclusion, each pair can make their sound for the group.for the group.

Game- Bippity Bop Bop BopGame- Bippity Bop Bop BopHow to Play:How to Play: The person who is It walks around the circle. It The person who is It walks around the circle. It tells a student to make one of three poses - Elvis, Elephant or tells a student to make one of three poses - Elvis, Elephant or Surfer Dude. The poses, however, require three people to Surfer Dude. The poses, however, require three people to make. The person that is told to do the pose is the middle make. The person that is told to do the pose is the middle person and the two students sitting on either side must help. person and the two students sitting on either side must help. With the Elvis pose, the middle person poses with a guitar and With the Elvis pose, the middle person poses with a guitar and acts like she is playing, the two on the sides are the adoring acts like she is playing, the two on the sides are the adoring fans, fanning Elvis with hands overhead. The Surfer Dude is in fans, fanning Elvis with hands overhead. The Surfer Dude is in the middle and acting like he is on a surfboard while the two the middle and acting like he is on a surfboard while the two on either side are the waves with hands waving below (by the on either side are the waves with hands waving below (by the waist). The Elephant is in the middle joining her two hands waist). The Elephant is in the middle joining her two hands together to make the trunk and the two on the sides put their together to make the trunk and the two on the sides put their arms in a “C” shape to make large ears facing the elephant. arms in a “C” shape to make large ears facing the elephant. The person who is It tries to say “Elephant, Bippity Bop Bop The person who is It tries to say “Elephant, Bippity Bop Bop Bop” before the three people can create the pose. Whoever Bop” before the three people can create the pose. Whoever doesn’t manage to strike his part of the pose, becomes It. doesn’t manage to strike his part of the pose, becomes It.

Game- Build a SentenceGame- Build a Sentence

Materials:Materials: Paper or note cards, pencils Paper or note cards, pencils

How To Play:How To Play: Partner the players. Players brainstorm a list of Partner the players. Players brainstorm a list of words with four to six letters (in a category works well). Each words with four to six letters (in a category works well). Each partnership chooses a word. They then create a sentence by using partnership chooses a word. They then create a sentence by using each letter in their word as a beginning letter for the words. each letter in their word as a beginning letter for the words. For example: BEAR Better eat and run! For example: BEAR Better eat and run! Each partner pair shares its sentence with the whole group. You can Each partner pair shares its sentence with the whole group. You can continue a few more times with other words from the brainstormed continue a few more times with other words from the brainstormed list.list.

Plan for Success: Plan for Success: Try a few samples together with the whole Try a few samples together with the whole class. With younger students, use wall words or three-letter words class. With younger students, use wall words or three-letter words to begin. to begin.

Variations/Extensions:Variations/Extensions: Choose one word and see how may Choose one word and see how may different sentences the students can create.different sentences the students can create.

Game- BuzzGame- Buzz

How To Play:How To Play: Around the room or circle, Around the room or circle, players count sequentially. Each time a players count sequentially. Each time a multiple of 7 or number with 7 in it is named, multiple of 7 or number with 7 in it is named, the player whose turn it is must say “Buzz.” the player whose turn it is must say “Buzz.”

EXAMPLE: Players count 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, Buzz, EXAMPLE: Players count 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, Buzz, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, Buzz, 15, 16, Buzz, and 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, Buzz, 15, 16, Buzz, and so on. When a mistake is made, players start so on. When a mistake is made, players start again.again.

For added difficulty add Bops at every For added difficulty add Bops at every multiple of 5.multiple of 5.

Game- Catch my ClapGame- Catch my Clap

How To Play:How To Play: This is a good This is a good transition activity. There is no talking transition activity. There is no talking in this game. One player is the in this game. One player is the leader. All players rub their hands leader. All players rub their hands together. They watch the leader and together. They watch the leader and when she claps, they try to clap in when she claps, they try to clap in unison. unison.

Game- Category SnapGame- Category Snap

The group sits in a circle. The leader starts a The group sits in a circle. The leader starts a rhythm using a sequence of knee slap, handclap, rhythm using a sequence of knee slap, handclap, right-hand finger snap, left-hand finger snap. The right-hand finger snap, left-hand finger snap. The leader then announces a category, such as fruits, leader then announces a category, such as fruits, on the right-hand finger snap and names an on the right-hand finger snap and names an example, such as apples, with the left-hand finger example, such as apples, with the left-hand finger snap. The next person in the circle must be ready snap. The next person in the circle must be ready to name the leader’s fruit with the right-hand to name the leader’s fruit with the right-hand finger snap and then a different fruit with the left-finger snap and then a different fruit with the left-hand finger snap: knee slap, hand clap, “apples, hand finger snap: knee slap, hand clap, “apples, apricots.” The play continues around the circle. apricots.” The play continues around the circle. Once an item has been named, it cannot be used Once an item has been named, it cannot be used again. again.

Game- Chain ReactionGame- Chain Reaction

This game works like Telephone. The class forms This game works like Telephone. The class forms a line facing the same direction. The last player a line facing the same direction. The last player taps the person in front of them, asks her to turn taps the person in front of them, asks her to turn around, and makes three actions just one time. around, and makes three actions just one time. That player taps the player in front of her to turn That player taps the player in front of her to turn around. She repeats the three actions one at a around. She repeats the three actions one at a time. The three actions move down the line until time. The three actions move down the line until they reach the front. The first player in line goes they reach the front. The first player in line goes to the back to show the three actions to the last to the back to show the three actions to the last player—the originator of the chain reaction.player—the originator of the chain reaction.

Game- CharadesGame- Charades

How To Play:How To Play: Leader prepares a list Leader prepares a list of vocabulary words. One student or of vocabulary words. One student or a group of students acts out a group of students acts out vocabulary words while the rest of vocabulary words while the rest of the class tries to guess which word is the class tries to guess which word is being acted out. being acted out.

Game- Chase the CabooseGame- Chase the Caboose

Players sit in a circle. One player is chosen to Players sit in a circle. One player is chosen to be It and stands in the middle (this will create be It and stands in the middle (this will create an open chair). The player who is It then tells an open chair). The player who is It then tells the circle members sitting on either side of the circle members sitting on either side of the open chair which direction the circle the open chair which direction the circle should move. Circle members then begin to should move. Circle members then begin to move to the next chair in the designated move to the next chair in the designated direction as an open seat becomes available direction as an open seat becomes available to them. It tries to sit in an open chair. When to them. It tries to sit in an open chair. When she succeeds, the player left standing is It she succeeds, the player left standing is It and the game begins again.and the game begins again.

Game- CoconutGame- Coconut This game incorporates Rock, Paper, Scissors into the This game incorporates Rock, Paper, Scissors into the

following characters and actions:following characters and actions:

Coconut (walking on knees or squatting with bent knees)Coconut (walking on knees or squatting with bent knees)Palm Tree (swaying arms overhead)Palm Tree (swaying arms overhead)Volcano (jumping using arms as lava)Volcano (jumping using arms as lava)King or Queen Kamehameha (doing a princess wave)King or Queen Kamehameha (doing a princess wave)

All players start as a coconut. They find another coconut All players start as a coconut. They find another coconut and play Rock, Paper, Scissors. Whoever wins, evolves and and play Rock, Paper, Scissors. Whoever wins, evolves and becomes a palm tree, whoever loses remains a coconut. becomes a palm tree, whoever loses remains a coconut. Palm trees then find other palm trees and repeat the Rock, Palm trees then find other palm trees and repeat the Rock, Paper, Scissors. The winner goes on to being a volcano and Paper, Scissors. The winner goes on to being a volcano and the loser becomes a coconut. Players try to move up to king the loser becomes a coconut. Players try to move up to king or queen, but the game is continuous. or queen, but the game is continuous.

Game- CoseekiGame- Coseeki

How to Play:How to Play: One player leaves the group and One player leaves the group and stands where she/he cannot see the group. The stands where she/he cannot see the group. The group chooses a leader who does a movement, group chooses a leader who does a movement, such as tapping his toe, which the others follow. such as tapping his toe, which the others follow. The leader changes the movement regularly and The leader changes the movement regularly and the others follow the leader’s movement. The the others follow the leader’s movement. The hidden player returns, stands in the middle of the hidden player returns, stands in the middle of the circle, watches the movements and tries to guess circle, watches the movements and tries to guess who the leader is. The player in the middle has who the leader is. The player in the middle has three chances to identify the leader. After the three chances to identify the leader. After the leader has been identified or the player in the leader has been identified or the player in the middle has had three guesses, another leader middle has had three guesses, another leader and guesser are chosen to continue the game.and guesser are chosen to continue the game.

Game- Crows and CrainsGame- Crows and Crains (outside game)(outside game)

Materials:Materials: An open space with marked boundaries, a An open space with marked boundaries, a center line, and a safety zone for two groupscenter line, and a safety zone for two groups

How to Play:How to Play: Create two equal groups and have them Create two equal groups and have them stand in two lines facing the center. A caller will say either stand in two lines facing the center. A caller will say either “Crows” or “Cranes.” If the caller says, “Crows,” the crows “Crows” or “Cranes.” If the caller says, “Crows,” the crows

will cross over the center line and try to tag the Cranes will cross over the center line and try to tag the Cranes before they reach their safety zone. If a Crow tags a Crane, before they reach their safety zone. If a Crow tags a Crane,

she will come to the other side and become a Crow. The she will come to the other side and become a Crow. The process continues with the caller and each group acting process continues with the caller and each group acting

accordingly. accordingly.

Plan for Success: Plan for Success: Model and practice safe tagging Model and practice safe tagging (shoulders, back, arms) and the Tagger’s Choice rule (if the (shoulders, back, arms) and the Tagger’s Choice rule (if the

tagger says he got you, he did). Be sure to review good tagger says he got you, he did). Be sure to review good sportsmanship as some students will have to change sides.sportsmanship as some students will have to change sides.

Game- The Cup GameGame- The Cup Game

How To Play:How To Play: Seated in a circle on the floor, start with cups upside down in front of Seated in a circle on the floor, start with cups upside down in front of players. Perform the following movements and sounds in unison. players. Perform the following movements and sounds in unison.

PART ONEPART ONEBeat 1: clap Beat 1: clap Beat 2: clapBeat 2: clapBeat 3: tap cup bottom twice Beat 3: tap cup bottom twice Beat 4: tap cup bottom onceBeat 4: tap cup bottom onceBeat 5: clapBeat 5: clapBeat 6: raise cup a few inches off floorBeat 6: raise cup a few inches off floorBeat 7: place cup down againBeat 7: place cup down againBeat 8: restBeat 8: rest

PART TWOPART TWOBeat 1: clapBeat 1: clapBeat 2: grasp cup with right handBeat 2: grasp cup with right handBeat 3: “pop” the open end of cup against the left palm held flatBeat 3: “pop” the open end of cup against the left palm held flatBeat 4: place cup down, upside down Beat 4: place cup down, upside down Beat 5: lift cup to place its bottom in the left palm. Grasp cup with left hand.Beat 5: lift cup to place its bottom in the left palm. Grasp cup with left hand.Beat 6: slap floor with right handBeat 6: slap floor with right handBeat 7: using left hand, pass the cup in front of person on right. Place cup upside Beat 7: using left hand, pass the cup in front of person on right. Place cup upside down.down.Beat 8: restBeat 8: rest

Game- Crazy ChairsGame- Crazy Chairs

How To Play:How To Play: Students sit in a circle. One Students sit in a circle. One person is chosen to be It and stands in the person is chosen to be It and stands in the middle of the circle (this will create and open middle of the circle (this will create and open chair). It then tells the circle members sitting chair). It then tells the circle members sitting on either side of the open chair which on either side of the open chair which direction the circle should move. Circle direction the circle should move. Circle members then begin moving in that direction members then begin moving in that direction as seats becomes available to them. It tries to as seats becomes available to them. It tries to work her way into the moving circle to occupy work her way into the moving circle to occupy an empty chair. The person whose chair It an empty chair. The person whose chair It takes becomes the new It. takes becomes the new It.

Game- Doing the RumbaGame- Doing the Rumba

How To Play:How To Play: Players are in a circle. One player Players are in a circle. One player begins making dance gestures while saying, “This begins making dance gestures while saying, “This is the way to do the Rumba.” Everyone mimics is the way to do the Rumba.” Everyone mimics the action. The next player says, “No, this is the the action. The next player says, “No, this is the way to do the Rumba” and adds another action. way to do the Rumba” and adds another action. The group adds the second move to the first, The group adds the second move to the first, mimicking both moves. The third player says, mimicking both moves. The third player says, “No, this is the way to do the Rumba,” adding a “No, this is the way to do the Rumba,” adding a new gesture. The group repeats all three actions new gesture. The group repeats all three actions in order and the game progresses in this manner in order and the game progresses in this manner around the circle.around the circle.

Game- Elbow TagGame- Elbow Tag(Outside Game)(Outside Game)

Materials:Materials: Large outdoor space marked with game boundaries Large outdoor space marked with game boundaries

How To Play:How To Play: All players form pairs, except for two. Pairs stand All players form pairs, except for two. Pairs stand side-by-side, hands on hips and elbows hooked together. Pairs side-by-side, hands on hips and elbows hooked together. Pairs

randomly scatter in the playing area. Of the unpaired players, one randomly scatter in the playing area. Of the unpaired players, one is the chaser (It) and the other is the tagee. Simple tag is played is the chaser (It) and the other is the tagee. Simple tag is played with the two free players and they switch roles as the It tags the with the two free players and they switch roles as the It tags the

tagee. To avoid being tagged the tagee can run between the pairs tagee. To avoid being tagged the tagee can run between the pairs with hooked arms or hook onto the free elbow of any player. Now with hooked arms or hook onto the free elbow of any player. Now the tagee is safe as is the player with whom she hooked elbows, the tagee is safe as is the player with whom she hooked elbows, but the other half of that pair now must run away from It or be but the other half of that pair now must run away from It or be

tagged. tagged.

Plan for Success: Plan for Success: Review safe tagging (shoulders, back, arms) Review safe tagging (shoulders, back, arms) and the Tagger’s Choice rule (if the tagger says she got you, she and the Tagger’s Choice rule (if the tagger says she got you, she did). Model and practice safe hooking of elbows and movement did). Model and practice safe hooking of elbows and movement

(walking or running) within the boundaries.(walking or running) within the boundaries.

Game- Elephant, Palm Tree, Game- Elephant, Palm Tree, BoatBoat

How to Play:How to Play: The group sits in a circle. The teacher points to a player and The group sits in a circle. The teacher points to a player and says her name, following immediately with the name of one of three says her name, following immediately with the name of one of three objects: Elephant, Palm Tree, or Boat. For example, the teacher says, objects: Elephant, Palm Tree, or Boat. For example, the teacher says, “Sandra, elephant.” This player and the players immediately to the right “Sandra, elephant.” This player and the players immediately to the right and to the left, stand. The three players then pantomime the named and to the left, stand. The three players then pantomime the named object, using the following specific movements.object, using the following specific movements.

Elephant – To mimic a trunk, the center player joins both arms together, Elephant – To mimic a trunk, the center player joins both arms together, points them downward, and sways them from side to side. The two players points them downward, and sways them from side to side. The two players on either side make half-circles with their arms to suggest ears.on either side make half-circles with their arms to suggest ears.

Palm Tree – To mimic windblown fronds, the center player raises both arms Palm Tree – To mimic windblown fronds, the center player raises both arms high in the air and sways them. The other two players hold their arms out high in the air and sways them. The other two players hold their arms out to the side and wave them like a hula dancer. to the side and wave them like a hula dancer.

Boat – Pretending to be a pirate, the center player stands on one leg, Boat – Pretending to be a pirate, the center player stands on one leg, covers one eye with one hand, and salutes with the other. The players on covers one eye with one hand, and salutes with the other. The players on either side paddle the boat.either side paddle the boat.

When the trio has successfully pantomimed the object, the teacher points When the trio has successfully pantomimed the object, the teacher points to another student and says, for example, “Shona, boat.” Shona then to another student and says, for example, “Shona, boat.” Shona then becomes the middle person of the next trio, who will pantomime a boat.becomes the middle person of the next trio, who will pantomime a boat.

Game- Everybody’s it TagGame- Everybody’s it Tag

(Outside Game)(Outside Game)

How to Play:How to Play: Select a caller. When the caller says, Select a caller. When the caller says, “Everybody’s It”, students chase each other. When one student “Everybody’s It”, students chase each other. When one student

tags another, the tagged student remains frozen. If two tags another, the tagged student remains frozen. If two students tag each other at the same time, they can decide students tag each other at the same time, they can decide

whether to freeze or keep running. whether to freeze or keep running. After a few minutes or when a lot of people are frozen, the After a few minutes or when a lot of people are frozen, the caller shouts “Everybody’s It” again and all students are caller shouts “Everybody’s It” again and all students are

unfrozen and running again. unfrozen and running again.

Plan for Success:Plan for Success: Be sure that the boundaries are small (at Be sure that the boundaries are small (at first) and well defined. You can gradually increase the play first) and well defined. You can gradually increase the play

space when students are successful with the game. Model how space when students are successful with the game. Model how to run with students. Sometimes the power walk works well to run with students. Sometimes the power walk works well with students. Remember also to model and practice a safe with students. Remember also to model and practice a safe

touch and the Tagger’s Choice rule (if the tagger says he got touch and the Tagger’s Choice rule (if the tagger says he got you, he did).you, he did).

Game- Fact or FictionGame- Fact or Fiction

How To Play:How To Play: A student is chosen to A student is chosen to tell three things about herself: two are tell three things about herself: two are facts and one is fiction. The other facts and one is fiction. The other players raise their hands and try to players raise their hands and try to guess which one is fiction. The player guess which one is fiction. The player who guesses is the next one to tell three who guesses is the next one to tell three things, or you can take volunteers. After things, or you can take volunteers. After two wrong guesses it is obvious which two wrong guesses it is obvious which one is fiction!one is fiction!

Game- Four CornersGame- Four Corners How to Play: Outdoor VersionHow to Play: Outdoor Version

Divide class into four groups. The groups stand at four corners of a field. Every group Divide class into four groups. The groups stand at four corners of a field. Every group has a flag, or cloth, of a different color (4 colors total) and every group member has a flag, or cloth, of a different color (4 colors total) and every group member wears his or her flag loosely enough so that it is easy to grab and detach. Players wears his or her flag loosely enough so that it is easy to grab and detach. Players cannot hold onto their flags with their hands or tie it to themselves. cannot hold onto their flags with their hands or tie it to themselves.

Players cross the field, trying both to grab others’ flags and reach the opposite corner Players cross the field, trying both to grab others’ flags and reach the opposite corner without losing their own. Anyone who loses a flag remains frozen in the spot where without losing their own. Anyone who loses a flag remains frozen in the spot where she lost it on the field. In the next round of crossings, these frozen players also try to she lost it on the field. In the next round of crossings, these frozen players also try to grab the flags of the runners while the runners are trying to grab each others. The grab the flags of the runners while the runners are trying to grab each others. The game ends when there are few or even just one player left with a flag. Another game ends when there are few or even just one player left with a flag. Another possible ending is that the final runners try to get across, which is nearly impossible possible ending is that the final runners try to get across, which is nearly impossible since there are by that time so many flag-grabbers spread out all around the field. since there are by that time so many flag-grabbers spread out all around the field.

Indoor VersionIndoor VersionFour groups stand in four corners of a room. A caller in the center closes his eyes and Four groups stand in four corners of a room. A caller in the center closes his eyes and says, “Corners.” While his eyes are closed, the students silently change corners. The says, “Corners.” While his eyes are closed, the students silently change corners. The caller then names a corner by saying North, South, East, or West. If players are caller then names a corner by saying North, South, East, or West. If players are standing in the corner that is called, they are out. The game continues until the four standing in the corner that is called, they are out. The game continues until the four corners are clear.corners are clear.

Variations/Extensions:Variations/Extensions: This game works best with topics on which students have a This game works best with topics on which students have a variety of opinions; current events in particular work well. variety of opinions; current events in particular work well.

Corners or areas of the room are labeled with the signs: agree, disagree, somewhat Corners or areas of the room are labeled with the signs: agree, disagree, somewhat agree, somewhat disagree. The leader makes statements about a chosen topic. With agree, somewhat disagree. The leader makes statements about a chosen topic. With each statement, students move to the sign which corresponds to their response. each statement, students move to the sign which corresponds to their response. Before making the next statement, the leader can ask several students to explain Before making the next statement, the leader can ask several students to explain why they chose that specific corner. why they chose that specific corner.

Game- Gone MissingGame- Gone Missing

How To Play:How To Play: Two players are sent out of the room. Then Two players are sent out of the room. Then one of the remaining players leaves the circle and hides out one of the remaining players leaves the circle and hides out of sight. When the two players return, they try to name the of sight. When the two players return, they try to name the missing player.missing player.

Variations/Extensions:Variations/Extensions: When the two players return, When the two players return, each tries to be the first to name the missing player. At each tries to be the first to name the missing player. At times, more than one person may go missing. Also, if times, more than one person may go missing. Also, if selecting more than one person to go missing, those gone selecting more than one person to go missing, those gone missing may have something in common:missing may have something in common:

EXAMPLES:EXAMPLES:Those not wearing jeansThose not wearing jeansThose without bracesThose without braces

Game- Grandmother’s Game- Grandmother’s TrunkTrunk

How to Play:How to Play: Begin the activity by saying, “I’m Begin the activity by saying, “I’m going on a trip, and I need to pack my going on a trip, and I need to pack my grandmother’s trunk.” The first child then says grandmother’s trunk.” The first child then says what they will pack in the trunk. For example, “I’m what they will pack in the trunk. For example, “I’m going on a trip, and I’m taking my bike.” Each child going on a trip, and I’m taking my bike.” Each child in the circle then adds one item to the trunk. “I’m in the circle then adds one item to the trunk. “I’m going on a trip, and I’m taking my bike and my going on a trip, and I’m taking my bike and my sneakers.” “I’m going on a trip, and I’m taking my sneakers.” “I’m going on a trip, and I’m taking my bike, my sneakers, and a baseball.” And so on bike, my sneakers, and a baseball.” And so on around the group.around the group.

Variations/Extensions:Variations/Extensions: Similar to "Going on a Similar to "Going on a TripTrip

Game- GorillaGame- Gorilla

Like rock paper scissors. Stand back to Like rock paper scissors. Stand back to back say the following saying and then back say the following saying and then count down from 5. At one you both turn count down from 5. At one you both turn and act either the Gorilla, Ninja, or and act either the Gorilla, Ninja, or Cowboy. Follow the saying and if you Cowboy. Follow the saying and if you loose your out.loose your out.

“ “ Gorilla beats the ninja, ninja beats the Gorilla beats the ninja, ninja beats the cowboys, cowboy beats the gorilla, and if cowboys, cowboy beats the gorilla, and if you snooze, you loose.”you snooze, you loose.”

Game- Hot PotatoeGame- Hot Potatoe Materials:Materials: Any small object to pass Any small object to pass

How to Play:How to Play: Players sit in a circle. A “hot potato” Players sit in a circle. A “hot potato” (beanbag or ball) is passed around the circle until a (beanbag or ball) is passed around the circle until a player standing outside the circle calls, “Hot potato!” player standing outside the circle calls, “Hot potato!” The player with the potato in her hands at this The player with the potato in her hands at this moment starts a separate potato caller circle, calls moment starts a separate potato caller circle, calls out a number. Those in the potato caller circle count out a number. Those in the potato caller circle count off to this number and end by saying, “Hot potato!” in off to this number and end by saying, “Hot potato!” in unison. The game continues until all but two players unison. The game continues until all but two players have moved to the potato caller circle. Most players have moved to the potato caller circle. Most players have no sense of winning or losing in this game, as have no sense of winning or losing in this game, as it’s fun to be in either circle.it’s fun to be in either circle.

Game- ImpulseGame- Impulse

How To Play:How To Play: Two equal lines are formed with Two equal lines are formed with students holding hands. A squeeze is passed students holding hands. A squeeze is passed down the lines as quickly as the players can. down the lines as quickly as the players can. When the leader says, “Go,” the squeeze is When the leader says, “Go,” the squeeze is passed through the line until it reaches the end. passed through the line until it reaches the end. The last person to receive the squeeze reaches The last person to receive the squeeze reaches for a ball/beanbag. The team to get the for a ball/beanbag. The team to get the ball/beanbag first is the winner. ball/beanbag first is the winner.

Game- I want a Comfy ChairGame- I want a Comfy Chair

How to Play:How to Play: The leader must count off the group consecutively, The leader must count off the group consecutively, telling everyone to remember their number (the leader takes the telling everyone to remember their number (the leader takes the last number). The object of the game is for the It to get a seat. This last number). The object of the game is for the It to get a seat. This can happen in two ways: can happen in two ways:

1) “My chair is hard” 1) “My chair is hard” It goes up to any player and asks, “How do you like your chair?” If It goes up to any player and asks, “How do you like your chair?” If the answer is “My chair is hard” the It then asks, “Which chair the answer is “My chair is hard” the It then asks, “Which chair would you rather sit in?” The player has to give two numbers (2 would you rather sit in?” The player has to give two numbers (2 and 15, for example). Instantly, two players who have those and 15, for example). Instantly, two players who have those numbers and their two neighbors must exchange chairs. While this numbers and their two neighbors must exchange chairs. While this is happening, the It tries to get a seat. After the exchange, the is happening, the It tries to get a seat. After the exchange, the player remaining without a seat is the new It. player remaining without a seat is the new It.

2) “My chair is soooo comfy” 2) “My chair is soooo comfy” The It asks, “How do you like your chair?” If the answer is “My chair The It asks, “How do you like your chair?” If the answer is “My chair is soooo comfy,” all players must change chairs while the It tries to is soooo comfy,” all players must change chairs while the It tries to get a chair. The player remaining without a chair is the new It. get a chair. The player remaining without a chair is the new It.

Chant-I sit in the GrassChant-I sit in the Grass

How To Play:How To Play: Everyone sits in the circle with one extra, Everyone sits in the circle with one extra, open chair. Students say the chant in order around the open chair. Students say the chant in order around the circle. The chant can go either direction, but always starts circle. The chant can go either direction, but always starts with the person next to the empty chair. As they say their with the person next to the empty chair. As they say their words, they move into the empty chair. words, they move into the empty chair. 1st student: “I sit” (moves)1st student: “I sit” (moves)2nd student: “In the grass” (moves)2nd student: “In the grass” (moves)3rd Student: "With my friend ____.” (name person across 3rd Student: "With my friend ____.” (name person across the circle to come and take the empty chair next to them) the circle to come and take the empty chair next to them)

After each round of the chant, there will be an empty chair After each round of the chant, there will be an empty chair from which the chant and the movement start again. The from which the chant and the movement start again. The object is to go quickly and allow everyone to move. object is to go quickly and allow everyone to move.

Game- KnotsGame- Knots

How to Play:How to Play: Divide students into groups of four Divide students into groups of four to six players. Players stand in a circle. They place to six players. Players stand in a circle. They place their right arms into the circle and grab a hand their right arms into the circle and grab a hand across from them. Each player does the same thing across from them. Each player does the same thing with his left arm. (Each player should now have two with his left arm. (Each player should now have two different players’ hands.) Now all the players are different players’ hands.) Now all the players are connected in a big knot that they must untangle connected in a big knot that they must untangle without letting go of their partners’ hands. The without letting go of their partners’ hands. The group discusses and strategizes different possible group discusses and strategizes different possible ways of untying the knot.ways of untying the knot.

Game- Now the NewsGame- Now the News

How To Play:How To Play: A player starts a “news” A player starts a “news” story by beginning to tell a story about story by beginning to tell a story about himself or someone else doing his hobby. himself or someone else doing his hobby. For example, a player who loves to go to For example, a player who loves to go to movies could start her story: “One day movies could start her story: “One day when I was checking out the movie page when I was checking out the movie page in the newspaper….” Then the next player in the newspaper….” Then the next player continues the story with a phrase or two; continues the story with a phrase or two; and the next player adds, and so on. You and the next player adds, and so on. You can go all the way around, or stop after can go all the way around, or stop after five to eight people. five to eight people.

Game- Off my BackGame- Off my Back

How to Play:How to Play: The person who is It stands by the The person who is It stands by the white board facing the class. The teacher writes a white board facing the class. The teacher writes a number on a sticky note and sticks it on Its back. number on a sticky note and sticks it on Its back. It turns around so the class can see the number. It turns around so the class can see the number. It then asks “yes-or-no”-questions about that It then asks “yes-or-no”-questions about that number such as “Is it bigger than 10…” which the number such as “Is it bigger than 10…” which the class answers. Provide a number line on the white class answers. Provide a number line on the white board to be used to help students see how to board to be used to help students see how to narrow the guesses and what is left. When it is narrow the guesses and what is left. When it is down to two numbers they guess one and then down to two numbers they guess one and then take the number off their back.take the number off their back.

Game- Pass the ChickenGame- Pass the Chicken Materials:Materials: A rubber chicken or other object to pass; A rubber chicken or other object to pass;

prepare the topic cards for this game in advance. prepare the topic cards for this game in advance.

How To Play:How To Play: In this game, nobody wants to hold the In this game, nobody wants to hold the chicken. Everyone sits in a circle. Select someone to be It; chicken. Everyone sits in a circle. Select someone to be It; that player starts with the chicken. The teacher or a caller that player starts with the chicken. The teacher or a caller says to It (for example), "Name five American presidents. says to It (for example), "Name five American presidents. Pass the chicken!" As soon as the caller says "Pass the Pass the chicken!" As soon as the caller says "Pass the chicken," It passes the chicken to the right and begins chicken," It passes the chicken to the right and begins following the direction (in this example, by naming following the direction (in this example, by naming presidents) as the chicken gets passed around the circle. If presidents) as the chicken gets passed around the circle. If the chicken returns to It before It correctly follows the the chicken returns to It before It correctly follows the direction, she remains It. If It responds correctly before the direction, she remains It. If It responds correctly before the chicken returns, the player holding the chicken when the chicken returns, the player holding the chicken when the response is completed (in this example, when It says the response is completed (in this example, when It says the fifth president’s name) becomes the new It.fifth president’s name) becomes the new It.

Game- Pop!Game- Pop!

How to Play:How to Play: Around a circle each player counts Around a circle each player counts off by ones. This counting game requires that you off by ones. This counting game requires that you agree ahead of time by what counting rule you agree ahead of time by what counting rule you are going to send the action around the circle: are going to send the action around the circle: counting by twos, threes, fives, tens, etc. To counting by twos, threes, fives, tens, etc. To begin, the player that is number five says “Pop!” begin, the player that is number five says “Pop!” and sits down. Following the predetermined rule, and sits down. Following the predetermined rule, successive players say, “Pop!” and also sit down. successive players say, “Pop!” and also sit down. The game continues in this fashion until only one The game continues in this fashion until only one player is left standing.player is left standing.

Chant- RainstormChant- Rainstorm How To Play:How To Play: In this game, players make a series of sounds that imitate In this game, players make a series of sounds that imitate

the coming and going of a rainstorm. Select a leader for the game who the coming and going of a rainstorm. Select a leader for the game who initiates the sound in the following order:initiates the sound in the following order:

1) Rub palms together repeatedly1) Rub palms together repeatedly2) Snap fingers2) Snap fingers3) Pat hands on thighs, alternating right and left3) Pat hands on thighs, alternating right and left4) Stomp feet or clap hands on floor4) Stomp feet or clap hands on floor5) Clap hands loudly5) Clap hands loudlyReverse order of soundsReverse order of sounds6) Stomp feet or clap hands on floor6) Stomp feet or clap hands on floor7) Pat hands on thighs, alternating right and left7) Pat hands on thighs, alternating right and left8) Snap fingers8) Snap fingers9) Rub palms together repeatedly9) Rub palms together repeatedly

The sounds travel around the circle with each player waiting to make the The sounds travel around the circle with each player waiting to make the sounds until it reaches his or her neighbor. The leader waits to change to sounds until it reaches his or her neighbor. The leader waits to change to the next sound until the sound she initiated comes back to her after the next sound until the sound she initiated comes back to her after traveling around the circle. In this way the sounds build and change traveling around the circle. In this way the sounds build and change simulating the rainstorm.simulating the rainstorm.

Game- Rhyming CharadesGame- Rhyming Charades

How To Play:How To Play: The teacher begins by saying, “I am thinking The teacher begins by saying, “I am thinking of a word that rhymes with cat.” Players who think they of a word that rhymes with cat.” Players who think they know a word go to the center of the circle and pantomime know a word go to the center of the circle and pantomime their guesses. For example, a player may go to the center their guesses. For example, a player may go to the center of the circle and flap his arms like a bat. The others in the of the circle and flap his arms like a bat. The others in the circle try to guess what the player in the center is miming. circle try to guess what the player in the center is miming. The player who correctly guesses the mimed word then has The player who correctly guesses the mimed word then has a chance to guess the teacher’s word. a chance to guess the teacher’s word.

Variations/Extensions:Variations/Extensions: Alphabet charades can be played Alphabet charades can be played in the same manner. For example:in the same manner. For example:“I am thinking of an animal that begins with the letter B.” “I am thinking of an animal that begins with the letter B.” “I’m thinking of an animal that begins with C and ends with “I’m thinking of an animal that begins with C and ends with T.”T.”

Game- Silent SpellingGame- Silent Spelling

Materials: Materials: List of spelling wordsList of spelling words

How To Play: How To Play: Display a list of already Display a list of already familiar spelling words. Each student is familiar spelling words. Each student is given a letter card that can be used to spell given a letter card that can be used to spell one of the spelling words. Have someone one of the spelling words. Have someone call out one of the spelling words. The call out one of the spelling words. The students who have a letter card that can students who have a letter card that can be used in that spelling word stand up and be used in that spelling word stand up and the group works together silently to form a the group works together silently to form a line with the letters in the correct order.line with the letters in the correct order.

Game- SparkleGame- Sparkle

Materials:Materials: List of spelling words seen only by teacher List of spelling words seen only by teacher

How To Play:How To Play: Everyone stands in a circle. Teacher states a word Everyone stands in a circle. Teacher states a word from the list. The first player repeats the word. The second player from the list. The first player repeats the word. The second player begins spelling the word by saying the first letter. Moving around the begins spelling the word by saying the first letter. Moving around the circle in sequence, players spell the word, one letter at a time, until circle in sequence, players spell the word, one letter at a time, until the word is the word is completelycompletely spelled. The next player says the word again spelled. The next player says the word again (think of a spelling bee procedure). The next in line says, “Sparkle!” (think of a spelling bee procedure). The next in line says, “Sparkle!” and sits down. If the word has been spelled correctly, the teacher and sits down. If the word has been spelled correctly, the teacher says so and a new round moves around the circle with a new word. If says so and a new round moves around the circle with a new word. If the word has not been spelled correctly, the teacher says so and the word has not been spelled correctly, the teacher says so and asks the players to huddle to find the error. The players then try asks the players to huddle to find the error. The players then try again to spell the word until it is spelled correctly.again to spell the word until it is spelled correctly.

The game ends when all players are seated or when all words on the The game ends when all players are seated or when all words on the list have been correctly spelled.list have been correctly spelled.

Game- Team Rock, Paper, Game- Team Rock, Paper, ScissorsScissors

(Outside Game) (Outside Game)

How to Play:How to Play: Divide players into two teams. Each Divide players into two teams. Each team decides on first and second signs to use for team decides on first and second signs to use for

Rock, Paper, Scissors, in case the first round results in Rock, Paper, Scissors, in case the first round results in a tie. After the teams huddles, they line up facing a tie. After the teams huddles, they line up facing each other in the center of the playing field. The each other in the center of the playing field. The

teams say, “Rock, Paper, Scissors!” and flash their teams say, “Rock, Paper, Scissors!” and flash their signs. The team that wins the round tries to tag the signs. The team that wins the round tries to tag the

other team as they run back to their safe zone. If they other team as they run back to their safe zone. If they get tagged, they join the winning team. The game get tagged, they join the winning team. The game

begins again with the huddle and continues.begins again with the huddle and continues.

Game- That’s Me!Game- That’s Me!

How to Play:How to Play: A designated first player in the A designated first player in the circle makes a personal statement such as, “I circle makes a personal statement such as, “I have two brothers.” Anyone else in the circle that have two brothers.” Anyone else in the circle that has two brothers takes a step in, raises his hand has two brothers takes a step in, raises his hand and says, “That’s me.” The next player in the and says, “That’s me.” The next player in the circle makes another statement such as, “My circle makes another statement such as, “My favorite color is red.” All players to whom that the favorite color is red.” All players to whom that the statement applies take a step into the circle, raise statement applies take a step into the circle, raise their hands and say, “That’s me.” You continue their hands and say, “That’s me.” You continue around the circle until everyone has had a chance around the circle until everyone has had a chance to make a statement.to make a statement.

Game- TitanicGame- Titanic How to Play:How to Play: Players walk around within the designated Players walk around within the designated

boundary after the caller says, “All hands on deck!” The caller boundary after the caller says, “All hands on deck!” The caller then can change the command to one of the choices listed below. then can change the command to one of the choices listed below. The commands require players to regroup in different ways. The commands require players to regroup in different ways. Return to “All hands on deck,” between rounds of the game. Return to “All hands on deck,” between rounds of the game.

““All hands on deck!” Everyone walks around individually.All hands on deck!” Everyone walks around individually.

““Person Overboard!” Find a partner. One player kneels and the Person Overboard!” Find a partner. One player kneels and the other pretends to look overboard.other pretends to look overboard.

““Battlestations!” Make a group of three. One player in the middle Battlestations!” Make a group of three. One player in the middle holds arms up. The player in front points forward. The player in holds arms up. The player in front points forward. The player in the back points back. This configuration resembles the three parts the back points back. This configuration resembles the three parts of the ship.of the ship.

““Lifeboat!” Find a group of four. Players simulate a lifeboat by Lifeboat!” Find a group of four. Players simulate a lifeboat by placing their hands on each other’s shoulders.placing their hands on each other’s shoulders.

Game- Toilet TagGame- Toilet Tag (outside game)(outside game)

How to Play:How to Play:Define a clear boundary for play.Define a clear boundary for play.

Assign two plumbers (taggers) or more depending on the Assign two plumbers (taggers) or more depending on the size of the group.size of the group.

When someone is tagged, she stands still and raises one of When someone is tagged, she stands still and raises one of her arms in the air.her arms in the air.

To unfreeze players, a free player must “flush” his arms. To unfreeze players, a free player must “flush” his arms. The frozen player then says, “Whoosh,” and twirls around The frozen player then says, “Whoosh,” and twirls around

once before he is free. once before he is free.

Players continue to move within the boundary releasing Players continue to move within the boundary releasing frozen players or standing waiting to be “flushed” to frozen players or standing waiting to be “flushed” to

reenter the game.reenter the game.

Game- TrainGame- Train

How To Play:How To Play: This activity can be used to This activity can be used to reinforce phonemic awareness, such as ending reinforce phonemic awareness, such as ending sounds in a word. Choose a category, such as sounds in a word. Choose a category, such as foods or animals. The first player says a word in foods or animals. The first player says a word in the category, such as horse. The next player says the category, such as horse. The next player says a new word in that category with the last sound in a new word in that category with the last sound in the first person’s word, such as seal. Continue the first person’s word, such as seal. Continue around the circle of players in this pattern: horse, around the circle of players in this pattern: horse, seal, lion, etc.seal, lion, etc.

Game- Twenty QuestionsGame- Twenty Questions

How to Play:How to Play: The group sits in a circle. One person is chosen The group sits in a circle. One person is chosen to stand in the middle of the circle with a card taped to her to stand in the middle of the circle with a card taped to her back. On the card is a word that names a person, place, or back. On the card is a word that names a person, place, or thing. The word can be related to subjects the class is studying, thing. The word can be related to subjects the class is studying, such as fish, mountains, rivers, capitols, books, characters, such as fish, mountains, rivers, capitols, books, characters, etc.) The child with the card on her back can ask up to twenty etc.) The child with the card on her back can ask up to twenty yes-or-no questions to try to figure out what word is written on yes-or-no questions to try to figure out what word is written on her back. Each time a question is asked, the class responds her back. Each time a question is asked, the class responds with thumbs up to indicate “yes” or thumbs down to indicate with thumbs up to indicate “yes” or thumbs down to indicate “no”. To increase the difficulty, the group can agree ahead of “no”. To increase the difficulty, the group can agree ahead of time that certain questions or types of questions are not time that certain questions or types of questions are not allowed. The child can make a guess at any time with a allowed. The child can make a guess at any time with a maximum of three guesses. After twenty questions, the child maximum of three guesses. After twenty questions, the child can ask for clues from the class before making a final guess.can ask for clues from the class before making a final guess.

Game- Vocabulary Game- Vocabulary Scategories Scategories

Materials:Materials: Paper and pencil Paper and pencil

How To Play:How To Play: Students form teams of Students form teams of three. Using topics provided by the leader, three. Using topics provided by the leader, students list as many of the words under students list as many of the words under the topic as they can. Teams strive to list the topic as they can. Teams strive to list less obvious words. For each word listed less obvious words. For each word listed only on one team’s list, that team receives only on one team’s list, that team receives a point. The overall goal is to establish and a point. The overall goal is to establish and then challenge the class’s best total then challenge the class’s best total scoring of unique words. scoring of unique words.

Game- A Warm Wind BlowsGame- A Warm Wind Blows How to Play:How to Play: Move chairs into a circle. The number of chairs Move chairs into a circle. The number of chairs

should be one less than the number of participants. Participants should be one less than the number of participants. Participants sit in the chairs and one person stands in the middle of the circle. sit in the chairs and one person stands in the middle of the circle. She/he says, “A warm wind blows for anyone who____,” filling in She/he says, “A warm wind blows for anyone who____,” filling in the blank with a category such as “has a dog.” Everyone who fits the blank with a category such as “has a dog.” Everyone who fits that category comes into the center of the circle and then quickly that category comes into the center of the circle and then quickly finds a new place to sit. The one person who doesn’t find a seat finds a new place to sit. The one person who doesn’t find a seat now stands in the center of the circle and says, “A warm wind now stands in the center of the circle and says, “A warm wind blow for anyone who ____,” naming a new category. The activity blow for anyone who ____,” naming a new category. The activity continues for several rounds. continues for several rounds.

This lively activity is a great way for children to learn about each This lively activity is a great way for children to learn about each other and what they have in common with classmates. Encourage other and what they have in common with classmates. Encourage students to name categories that relate to interests, hobbies, and students to name categories that relate to interests, hobbies, and family rather than clothing or appearance. You could brainstorm a family rather than clothing or appearance. You could brainstorm a list of categories before beginning the activity. list of categories before beginning the activity.

Game- Win, Loose, or DrawGame- Win, Loose, or Draw

Materials:Materials: Chart paper and markers Chart paper and markers

How To Play:How To Play: This is a quick game inspired by the This is a quick game inspired by the old TV show with the same name. Players pick a old TV show with the same name. Players pick a card with a word on it. Using the chart and card with a word on it. Using the chart and markers, they illustrate the word by drawing while markers, they illustrate the word by drawing while the rest of the group guesses the word. Whoever the rest of the group guesses the word. Whoever guesses the word first is the next to draw. guesses the word first is the next to draw.

Variations/Extensions:Variations/Extensions: Connect the words to Connect the words to your curriculum.your curriculum.

Game- Zip ZapGame- Zip Zap

How to Play:How to Play: A player is chosen to be It. The other A player is chosen to be It. The other players learn the name of their ZIP (the person on players learn the name of their ZIP (the person on their right), and the name of their ZAP (the person their right), and the name of their ZAP (the person on their left). It approaches any player, points and on their left). It approaches any player, points and says, “ZIP?” (or “ZAP?”) and counts to 5 as fast as says, “ZIP?” (or “ZAP?”) and counts to 5 as fast as possible. The chosen player must say the name of possible. The chosen player must say the name of her neighbor on her right (or left if ZAP is said) her neighbor on her right (or left if ZAP is said) before the count of 5. If the chosen player is before the count of 5. If the chosen player is successful, she is safe and the player who’s It stays successful, she is safe and the player who’s It stays It. If the chosen player fails she becomes It. It. If the chosen player fails she becomes It. However, the It may point to a player and say, “ZIP However, the It may point to a player and say, “ZIP ZAP!” This means that all players must find a new ZAP!” This means that all players must find a new seat while the It tries to get a seat so as not to be It seat while the It tries to get a seat so as not to be It again. The player without a seat is the new It.again. The player without a seat is the new It.

Game- ZoomGame- Zoom How to Play:How to Play: The person who begins the activity says “Zoom!” and The person who begins the activity says “Zoom!” and

turns their head quickly to a neighbor on either the right or the left. turns their head quickly to a neighbor on either the right or the left. That person passes the zoom to the next person and so on around the That person passes the zoom to the next person and so on around the circle. The idea is to go as fast as you can. You can challenge the circle. The idea is to go as fast as you can. You can challenge the group to go faster and use a stop watch to time them. group to go faster and use a stop watch to time them.

Variations/Extensions:Variations/Extensions:

Keep a record of the class’s best time.Keep a record of the class’s best time.

The word “Eeeek!” (the sound of coming to a screeching halt) stops The word “Eeeek!” (the sound of coming to a screeching halt) stops the Zoom and makes it reverse direction. In the first round, allow one the Zoom and makes it reverse direction. In the first round, allow one Eeeek and then in subsequent rounds increase the number of Eeeeks. Eeeek and then in subsequent rounds increase the number of Eeeeks. Remind children that the goal is to get the Zoom passed all the way Remind children that the goal is to get the Zoom passed all the way around the circle. If only a few children have had a chance to say around the circle. If only a few children have had a chance to say Eeeek you can end the activity by having everyone say Eeeek Eeeek you can end the activity by having everyone say Eeeek together. together.

For more accomplished players: Add in “Bump,”which signifies that For more accomplished players: Add in “Bump,”which signifies that you skip over the next person in the direction that the Zoom is you skip over the next person in the direction that the Zoom is already going.already going.

ResourcesResources

http://www.kididdles.com/lyrics/allsohttp://www.kididdles.com/lyrics/allsongs.htmlngs.html

http://www.originsonline.orghttp://www.originsonline.org http://www.itsafrogslife.net/goodbookhttp://www.itsafrogslife.net/goodbook

/titles.htm/titles.htm