Action Die and Dot Die

Two giant dice are rolled together: one with action pictures (jump, clap, squat, spin, stomp, star jump) and one with dots that say how many times to do it. The whole class moves at once, counting out loud.

How to play

1. The teacher attaches six action cards to one giant die with Velcro or tape; the other die has dots. We practice all six actions (2 min).
2. The teacher rolls only the action die, and we do that action nonstop until a clap (2 min).
3. Now roll both dice: count the dots together and do the action that many times, counting out loud (3 min).
4. Taking turns, several children roll the dice into the middle of the circle and call the command: “Four jumps!” or “Two star jumps!” (3 min).
5. Last roll in slow motion: do the action very slowly, breathing with each move (2 min).

Rules

• Dice roll into the middle, never at a friend.
• We all count together, out loud.
• When we finish our count, we freeze.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: arm versions of each action (jumping is punching up, squatting is leaning forward), and the child rolls the die by pushing it from the wheelchair.
• Hearing loss: show numbers with fingers and count by tapping a palm.
• Less coordination: the child may do half the reps or pick the simplest action.

Learning goals

• Do a variety of energetic movements.
• Match quantities with a number of movements.
• Throw a large object with both hands.

Equipment for a class of 25

• dado gigante: 2
• tarjetas con dibujos de acciones: 6

Teacher tip

Velcro cards let you change the actions each session. To keep turns short, give each child one roll and pass the die on.

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