Clock Face Turn Jumps

Each student stands in the middle of a chalk clock and jumps and turns to face the number the teacher calls: a quarter turn, a half turn or a full turn. It works on turning around the vertical axis, spatial awareness and stable landings.

How to play

1. Draw a chalk clock for each pair, or mark one with a hoop: a 3-foot circle with the numbers 12, 3, 6 and 9; the student stands in the center facing 12.
2. Practice without jumping (2 min): turn in place a quarter turn (face 3), a half turn (face 6) and a full turn (face 12 again).
3. The teacher calls a time and everyone does a two-foot jump, turning to face that number; the partner checks the direction and balance (4 min).
4. In pairs (4 min): one calls times and the other jumps; switch after 6 jumps. Each frozen, well-aimed landing earns a point.
5. Add direction (3 min): 3 o'clock turning right or 9 o'clock turning left, and combine the turn with a clap in the air.
6. Final challenge (2 min): the pair invents a sequence of three times in a row without losing balance.

Rules

• Always land on both feet at once with bent knees, and freeze for two seconds.
• Clocks must be at least 6 feet apart.
• If you feel dizzy, sit down in your clock until it passes.
• Partners cheer and give tips without teasing.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: the student turns in a wheelchair or seated on a mat, spinning with the hands toward the number called.
• Visual impairment: mark the numbers with different tactile objects (hoop, cone, beanbag) and the partner taps the shoulder when the student is facing the right way.
• Fitness level: each student chooses to jump or walk the turn; skilled students link two turns with no pause.

Learning goals

• Turn around the vertical axis in the direction called.
• Keep balance after a jump with a turn.
• Use reference points to stay oriented in space.

Equipment for a class of 25

• sidewalk chalk: 6
• hoops: 13

Teacher tip

Many kids turn only their heads: tell them the belly button must face the number. Alternate turning directions to prevent dizziness.

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