Beyond the Cascade: Fountain, Columns and Shower

For students who already have the three-ball cascade, this teaches three new patterns: the two-ball fountain in one hand, columns and the shower. Each student ends with a short sequence mixing patterns.

How to play

1. Review the three-ball cascade and go for 20 catches in a row (5 min).
2. Fountain: two balls in one hand, throwing in outward circles; strong hand first, then the other (8 min).
3. Columns: two balls rising together in parallel columns with both hands, then add the third up the middle (8 min).
4. Two-ball shower: one hand throws high and the other passes the ball fast and low, in a circle (7 min).
5. Each student builds a sequence of about 20 seconds mixing two patterns and shows it to a partner (7 min).

Rules

• Work at least two meters apart.
• Let a runaway ball roll and pick it up when the set ends.
• Try each pattern several times before asking for help.
• Partners give kind, specific feedback.

Variations

Adaptations

• Students with limited use of one hand: focus on the fountain with the functional hand.
• Students with low vision: use contrasting colored balls and face a plain wall.
• Students without the cascade yet: work the fountain and columns with scarves.

Learning goals

• Expand the repertoire of juggling patterns.
• Coordinate both hands on different rhythms.
• Compose an original sequence.

Equipment for a class of 25

• juggling balls: 90

Teacher tip

Pair students still working on the cascade with someone who has it. Common fountain mistake: throwing inward, so the balls collide; they need to circle outward.

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