Cardboard AED: Follow the Voice Prompts
Each group builds a cardboard AED with two paper pads and a life-size torso drawn on butcher paper, then practices the full sequence by following the voice prompts read by a classmate. It removes the fear of defibrillators: the device guides you and anyone can use it.
How to play
- Explain what an AED does and where the school's AED, or the closest one, is located (3 min).
- In groups of four: draw a life-size adult torso on butcher paper, cut two paper pads and build the AED from a box (5 min).
- Guided round: a classmate reads the voice prompts on the card (turn on, place pads, don't touch, shock, start CPR) and the rescuer follows them; one pad goes below the right collarbone, the other on the left side below the armpit (6 min).
- Rounds with rotating roles: rescuer, AED voice, compressor on a cushion who restarts CPR after the shock, and observer (8 min).
- Wrap-up: each group names the two moments when no one should touch the patient (3 min).
Rules
- Pads go on the paper torso, never on a classmate.
- Before 'shock', the rescuer shouts 'Everyone clear!' and checks no one is touching.
- After the shock, go straight back to compressions.
- Scissors are used only at the building table.
Variations
Easier
The teacher reads the prompts and all groups follow at the same time.
Standard
Each group has its own AED voice and rotates roles.
Harder
The AED voice changes to 'no shock advised' and the group must continue CPR without hesitating.
Adaptations
- Students with visual impairments: pads have raised tape edges and the torso has raised marks at the collarbone and armpit.
- Deaf or hard-of-hearing students: the AED voice also shows each prompt on a written card.
- Limited mobility: tape the torso to a table or wall at wheelchair height.
Learning goals
- Know the sequence for using an AED.
- Place the pads in the correct position.
- Coordinate defibrillation and CPR without unnecessary pauses.
Equipment for a class of 25
- cardboard boxes: 7
- butcher paper: 7
- markers: 14
- tape: 7
- paper sheets: 14
- cushions: 7
Teacher tip
If your school has an AED trainer, use it in the last round; finish by visiting the school's real AED. Common mistake: standing still after the shock; the AED re-analyzes after two minutes, so keep compressing.
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