911 Tag: Saved by the Right Questions

A tag game where tagged players freeze with a hand to their ear, as if calling 911, and are freed only by answering the three key emergency-call questions. It warms up with running and locks in what information to give. (In the US and Mexico the number is 911; in Spain and the rest of Europe it is 112.)

How to play

1. Easy running and changes of direction around the whole space (2 min).
2. Quick review of the three questions: Where are you? What happened? How many people are hurt? (1 min).
3. Game with four taggers in pinnies: anyone tagged freezes with a hand to their ear (3 min).
4. To free them, a teammate stands in front and asks the three questions; the frozen player gives made-up but complete answers (2 min).
5. Switch taggers; in the final round answers must also include a real street or landmark near the school (2 min).

Rules

• Tag with an open hand on the shoulder or back, no pushing.
• While the questions are being asked, neither player can be tagged.
• Answers must be complete; if something is missing, start over.
• Nobody stays frozen for more than a minute; the teacher frees them if needed.

Variations

Adaptations

• Deaf or hard-of-hearing students: the questions are written on three cards the rescuer carries.
• Limited mobility: play in a wheelchair in a less crowded zone, or be a tagger with a foam noodle.
• Shy students: may answer quietly, only to the person freeing them.

Learning goals

• Raise body temperature with running and changes of direction.
• Remember the basic information for a 911 call.
• Make quick decisions to free teammates.

Equipment for a class of 25

• pinnies: 4

Teacher tip

Change taggers every minute and a half so everyone runs. Common mistake: they free each other just by saying '911' without asking anything; insist on all three questions.

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