Closest to the Line Beanbag Toss

A traditional lagging game: each player tosses a beanbag so it stops as close as possible to a line without going over it. It builds distance perception, force control, and accepting results.

How to play

1. Chalk 6 target lines and a throwing line 10 feet from each one. Make 6 groups of 4-5 with one beanbag per student (2 min).
2. Taking turns, each student tosses underhand to land as close to the line as possible without touching or crossing it.
3. When everyone has tossed, the closest scores 2 points and the second closest 1; measure with a foot if needed.
4. The winner goes first next round and picks the toss for everyone: seated, other hand, or back to the line looking over the shoulder (6 min).
5. On the signal, change the distance to 13 feet and then 6 feet (4 min). Finish with a partner round where both beanbags must stop within one foot of the line (3 min).

Rules

• Toss from behind the line and retrieve only after everyone has tossed.
• A beanbag that touches or crosses the line does not score.
• Toss only toward your own line, never toward other groups.

Variations

Adaptations

• Wheelchair users: toss with a closer throwing line and a wider target line.
• Visual impairment: a partner claps over the line and describes where each beanbag lands.
• Skill level: anyone who wins two rounds in a row tosses from one step back.

Learning goals

• Judge distances and match tossing force to them.
• Try different ways of tossing to the same target.
• Accept results and settle close calls by measuring.

Equipment for a class of 25

• beanbags: 25
• chalk: 6

Teacher tip

Let groups measure and decide on their own while you correct arm swings. If it is windy, use heavier beanbags.

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