Architects and Builders Relay

Each group must copy a structure of poles, hoops and cones set up far away: an architect runs to look at it, returns and describes it, and only the builders touch the equipment. Students work on memory, communication and speed.

How to play

1. Build five identical models at one end of the blacktop using 2 poles, 2 hoops, 3 cones and 2 flat disc cones. Make five groups of five, each with the same equipment at a base 15 yards away (3 min).
2. Taking turns, an architect runs to the model, studies it for 10 seconds without touching it, runs back and describes it to the builders, who build it. Then the architect becomes a builder and another student goes (2 min).
3. Round 1: the group has 5 minutes to copy the model. At the end, each group walks over to check the original and counts how many pieces are placed correctly (6 min).
4. Round 2: each group spends 2 minutes designing a new model with its equipment and sets it up in the model zone for another group (2 min).
5. Groups rotate and copy another group's model under the same rules, in 5 minutes (5 min).
6. Wrap-up: the designers check the copy and share which words helped most in describing it (2 min).

Rules

• The architect doesn't touch the group's equipment; builders don't look at the model.
• Only one architect from each group may be out at a time.
• Count correct pieces for the whole group, with no group-to-group comparisons.
• Safety: carry poles level, and never run with them.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: the student is an architect with a shorter route, or a builder who places pieces on the ground.
• Hearing impairment or autism: the architect may sketch the model on a small whiteboard.
• Fitness level: high-energy groups run around a cone on each trip.

Learning goals

• Memorize and describe a structure accurately.
• Give clear spatial directions.
• Build as a team from someone else's information.

Equipment for a class of 25

• poles: 20
• hoops: 20
• cones: 30
• flat disc cones: 20

Teacher tip

Architects often describe things in no order, so suggest starting with 'the piece in the middle' and working outward. Have each base face away from the model zone.

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