Chalk Germs: Passing Game and Handwashing

A passing game where some balls are rubbed with chalk that, without anyone knowing, ends up on hands, faces, and shirts. Students see how germs spread and practice hygiene after exercise.

How to play

1. Without explaining anything, groups of six play «10 passes in a row» against defenders. Two of the balls have colored chalk rubbed on them (5 min).
2. The reveal: everyone checks hands, face, and shirt. Who has «germs»? How did they get there if not everyone touched that ball? (3 min).
3. Cleaning test: half the class wipes with a dry tissue, the other half washes at the sink with soap and water, scrubbing for about 20 seconds. Compare results (6 min).
4. After-PE routine: wash hands and face, change your shirt, use your own bottle, and never share a towel (4 min).
5. Group pledge: each group picks one locker room hygiene rule and writes it on a poster (2 min).

Rules

• No-contact defense: intercept, never rip the ball away.
• Nobody touches their face on purpose or smears others.
• Go to the restroom in orderly turns.
• Students with asthma or allergies do not rub the chalk.

Variations

Adaptations

• Visual impairment: checks for chalk by touch (dust on skin), and a partner describes where the marks are.
• Limited mobility: plays as a fixed passer in a protected zone.
• Students with eczema or sensitive skin: offer thin gloves or let them play with a chalk-free ball and observe.

Learning goals

• Understand how germs spread through contact.
• Practice effective handwashing.
• Adopt a hygiene routine after physical activity.

Equipment for a class of 25

• balls: 5
• colored chalk: 4
• tissues: 30
• soap: 2

Teacher tip

Rub the chalk onto the ball, no loose powder, and check beforehand that it washes off with water. Do this near the restrooms or bring a water jug and a basin.

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