Clap Code Commands
Each number of claps is a secret command: jog, jump, touch the floor, or freeze. Students jog freely and respond to the sound code, which warms up the body and trains listening and memory.
How to play
- Students jog freely around the space. Explain the code: 1 clap, jog; 2 claps, jump in place; 3 claps, touch the floor with both hands.
- For 2 minutes, the teacher claps in a varied order, slowly at first.
- Add two new commands: 4 claps, find someone and tap feet; whistle, freeze like a statue.
- Play 2 more minutes with the full code and a faster pace; anyone who makes a mistake does 3 jumps and keeps going.
- To finish, several students take turns giving the claps for 30 seconds each.
Rules
- Listen to the full number of claps before changing actions.
- For touch the floor, bend your knees, not just your back.
- Tap feet gently while looking at your partner.
- No one is out.
Variations
Easier
Use only 1, 2, and 3 claps with long pauses.
Standard
Four clap commands plus the whistle, with a rising pace.
Harder
Change the code halfway through, or mix claps with foot stomps.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: commands are adapted, so jumping becomes raising the arms and touching the floor becomes touching the knees.
- Hearing impairment: the teacher holds up fingers at the same time as clapping.
- Fitness level: a student who needs it walks instead of jogging.
Learning goals
- Link sound signals to movement actions.
- Remember and apply a code that keeps growing.
- Warm up the body with traveling, jumping, and knee bends.
Equipment for a class of 25
- whistle: 1
Teacher tip
Post the code on a wall for anyone who forgets. Claps must be loud and clear; if the gym is noisy, use a hand drum instead.
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