Originally published in TEACH Magazine, November/December 2018 Issue
When the weather is too cold or unfavourable to venture outside, why not try something different—an in-school game-based “field-trip.” Here are some examples of some games, adapted from Playsport, that are fun, flexible, and easy-to-learn. They can be played both indoors and outdoors and target a range of skills.
Beanbag Boccia
Grade Level: 5–7
The object of Beanbag Boccia is to toss a beanbag (or similar object) as close to a target as possible, also known as the “pallino.” The target can be a simple object such as a hula hoop. Groups take turns tossing their beanbags until all participants have tried. Similar to curling, participants are allowed to knock or hit either the pallino or other beanbags with their beanbag. After all participants have thrown their beanbags, the group with the closest beanbag to the pallino scores one point. That group also receives a point for each beanbag that is between the pallino and the other group’s closest beanbag. This group then moves the pallino to the opposite end of the playing area, starting the next round.
Flying Chicken Baseball
Grade Level: 8–12
To play Flying Chicken Baseball, objects are placed on the ground as bases. The batter uses an overhand throw to toss a rubber chicken as far as possible. The batting group runs together in a single file around the bases as many times as possible while maintaining the order of the line. The group scores a run for each participant who passes home plate. Meanwhile, the fielding group retrieves the chicken. The first participant to reach the chicken holds it up in the air while the other group members form a line behind. Once the entire group is in a line, they pass the chicken down the line using over-under passing. The last participant to receive the chicken runs to the front of the line and then yells “Stop!” If the batting group stops with half the group past home plate, count one point for each person who has crossed. The batter then goes to the back of the line and the next participant becomes the batter. The batting group has three turns at batting before they become the fielding group.
Switcheroo
Grade Level: 8–12
To play Switcheroo, participants are divided into two groups. Members stand side-by-side facing the other group with a volleyball net between them. The two groups then work together to send and receive a ball over the net to create a rally. One at a time, participants at the front of each line hit the ball over the net using a forearm pass (bump), overhead pass (volley), or toss and then run to the back of their end of the line. Participants all work together to prevent the ball from hitting the ground as the game progresses.
Word Scramble
Grade Level: 1–6
To play Word Scramble, participants are divided into small teams. Participants write a letter of the alphabet on various objects (e.g. cards, tennis balls, etc.). Objects are then spread around one end of the activity area. At the start signal, the first participant in each group retrieves an object. While the rest of the team is waiting, they complete their choice of a fitness activity (jumping jacks, sit-ups, etc.). When a participant brings an object back to the group, he or she chooses a new fitness activity to complete while the next participant in the group retrieves an object. This process is continued until all participants in the group have a letter. The team then tries to spell as many words as possible in 30 seconds. If a word cannot be spelled, a team member can exchange their object for a new one until a word can be spelled while the other teammates complete a fitness activity.
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