Cooperative Challenge Stations
Groups of 5 rotate through five stations, each with a challenge that can only be solved if the whole group takes part: passing hoops while holding hands, jumping rope together, or moving balls without hands. Students practice cooperation, goal setting, and problem-solving.
How to play
- Set up 5 stations marked with cones, each with a challenge card: 1) pass a hoop around the group while holding hands; 2) everyone jumps the long rope 5 times in a row; 3) carry 3 foam balls 30 feet without hands; 4) form a circle standing with eyes closed; 5) pass a ball down a line of students lying down using only feet.
- Make 5 groups of 5, one at each station. The group reads the card and sets its goal: finish in under 4 minutes or with fewer mistakes.
- Each station lasts 4 minutes. On the whistle, groups rotate clockwise (20 min total).
- At each station, the group marks on the card whether it completed the challenge.
- 5-minute wrap-up: each group shares which challenge was hardest and how they solved it.
Rules
- A challenge only counts if the whole group takes part.
- At the jump rope station, leave space between jumpers, and turners swing the rope at an easy pace.
- Take care of equipment: leave each station the way you found it.
- There's no ranking between groups.
Variations
Easier
Lower the reps (3 jumps, 2 balls) and allow more time per station.
Standard
Card challenges with 4 minutes per station.
Harder
Add a condition at each station: no talking, or one member wears a blindfold.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: every card includes a way to take part from a wheelchair (turning the rope, guiding the circle, receiving the ball).
- Hearing impairment: cards include pictures, and station changes are also signaled with a raised arm.
- Fitness level: each group chooses the card's challenge level (bronze, silver, gold).
Learning goals
- Set a realistic group goal for each challenge.
- Solve movement problems with everyone involved.
- Value each team member's contributions.
Equipment for a class of 25
- challenge cards: 5
- hoops: 2
- foam balls: 4
- long rope: 1
- cones: 10
Teacher tip
Set up stations before class and laminate the cards. Stay near the jump rope station, which has the highest tripping risk.
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