Connect Four Floor Relay
Two teams play Connect Four on a tape grid on the floor: each runner carries a marker in their team color and places it in the lowest open square of the column they choose. Students practice strategy, anticipating the other team's moves, and relay movement.
How to play
- Tape 2 grids of 6 columns by 5 rows with 16-in squares; the row closest to the teams is the bottom. Make 4 teams of 6, two per grid, behind cones 5 m (16 ft) away (3 min).
- Each team has flat disc cones in one color. The runner carries one marker, places it in the lowest open square of a column, and returns to high-five the next teammate.
- Teams alternate: no one leaves until the other team's runner is back at the cone. The line may give quiet advice.
- Four in a row horizontally, vertically, or diagonally wins; a full grid is a tie. Play 4 games of about 3 minutes, alternating who starts (13 min).
- Switch opponents for the last game and discuss which move decided each one (4 min).
Rules
- Markers always go in the lowest open square; otherwise they're moved down.
- Slow down before the grid; no stepping on markers or diving.
- Placed markers can't be moved.
Variations
Easier
A 5-by-4 grid with three in a row to win.
Standard
A 6-by-5 grid with four in a row in any direction.
Harder
Five seconds to decide on arrival, or hop to the grid.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: the student decides from their spot and a partner places the marker.
- Visual impairment: high-contrast markers and a partner who describes the grid.
- Fitness: more work with side shuffles back; less by starting closer.
Learning goals
- Anticipate the other team's moves and plan their own.
- Decide quickly under time pressure.
- Respect turns and teammates' decisions.
Equipment for a class of 25
- Rolls of masking tape: 2
- Flat disc cones: 60
- Cones: 4
Teacher tip
Use painter's tape, which peels off cleanly. At first students only build their own line; pause and ask what the other team is about to do.
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