Cardinal Directions Dash

Students learn where north, south, east, and west are on their own playground using the position of the sun, then play a game of moving quickly toward the direction called. It builds basic outdoor orientation and reaction speed.

How to play

1. To start, take the class outside, point out where the sun rises, and have students help hang N, S, E, and W signs on the four sides of the court (3 min).
2. Students spread out in the middle of the court; when they hear a direction, they move to that side and tag it with a hand (3 min).
3. Add ways of moving: run to the north, lunge-walk to the south, side-shuffle to the east, and walk slowly backward to the west (3 min).
4. Add the in-between directions with colored cones in the corners, such as northeast or southwest, and mix in quick calls (3 min).
5. Take down the signs and repeat five calls to see if students remember the directions using only playground landmarks (2 min).
6. Close in 2 minutes by asking which building or feature of the school lies to the north, south, east, and west.

Rules

• No one is out: if you go the wrong way, change direction and keep playing.
• Always walk when moving backward and look over your shoulder.
• Slow down before reaching the wall or fence and tag it with your hand only.
• Wait to hear the whole call before you take off.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: the student can turn the wheelchair or body toward the direction called and point, instead of traveling to the side.
• Hearing impairment: pair every call with holding up the sign or pointing with an outstretched arm.
• Fitness level: adjust the ways of moving or add a short sprint for students who need more intensity.

Learning goals

• Identify the cardinal directions on the school playground.
• Use landmarks like the sun or buildings to get oriented.
• React quickly to spatial cues.

Equipment for a class of 25

• letter signs: 4
• colored cones: 4

Teacher tip

Check the playground's true orientation beforehand with a compass or phone so you don't teach the wrong thing. Remind students never to look directly at the sun.

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