Class Agreement Relay
In teams, students run relays to collect cards with scrambled words and use them to build sentences that become the class code of conduct. It combines running, teamwork, and thinking about how we want to treat each other.
How to play
- For each of the 5 teams, prepare an envelope with about 20 mixed-up words that make 4 rules, like "we cheer for people who make mistakes" (prep ahead of time).
- Place the open envelopes face down by a cone about 50 ft from each team, which lines up behind its starting line (2 min).
- On the signal, the first runner takes one card, runs back, and high-fives the next runner. Keep going until all the words are collected (6 min).
- While others are running, students who are back arrange the words on the ground to form sentences that make sense.
- When a team thinks it has its 4 rules, they raise their arms and the teacher checks; if a rule does not make sense, they rearrange it (3 min).
- Each team reads its rules aloud and acts them out in a 5-second frozen scene (4 min).
- As a class, choose the favorite rules and copy them onto butcher paper as the class agreement, which everyone signs (5 min).
Rules
- Take only one card per trip.
- Run in your own lane without crossing other teams.
- The whole team helps build the sentences, not just the captain.
Variations
Easier
Use shorter sentences of three or four words, with a helper picture on each card.
Standard
Use four rules of five or six words per team plus the frozen scene.
Harder
Add decoy words that do not belong to any sentence, and teams must write a fifth rule of their own.
Adaptations
- Students with limited mobility can be the team's sentence builder or run a shorter course.
- For students with reading difficulties, write cards in large print with picture symbols.
- For fitter students, require a different locomotor movement on each trip (side shuffle, careful backpedal, lunges).
Learning goals
- Reflect on the rules for getting along in PE class.
- Work with a team to solve a shared task under time pressure.
- Improve relay running and the handoff to a teammate.
Equipment for a class of 25
- cards: 100
- cones: 10
- butcher paper: 1
- markers: 5
Teacher tip
On windy days put a rock on each envelope and number them by team; review the signed agreement at the start of each lesson.
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