Countdown from 50 Beanbag Darts

Just like darts, each team starts at 50 points and subtracts the value of the chalk target zone where each beanbag lands, until it reaches exactly zero. Students work on accuracy and throwing force along with mental subtraction.

How to play

1. Chalk 6 targets with three rings: the bullseye is worth 10, the middle ring 5 and the outer ring 2. Draw a throwing line about 13 feet from each target (3 min).
2. Make 6 groups of 4 or 5. Each group has 3 beanbags and a scorekeeper who chalks the running count next to the target: 50, 40, 35...
3. Taking turns, each player tosses one beanbag underhand, says out loud how much to subtract and the new total, and collects it once all three throws of the turn are done.
4. To finish, you must land exactly on zero. If a throw would go below zero, it doesn't count and the turn passes, so players have to think about which zone to aim for (8 min).
5. A group that reaches zero wins a game, switches scorekeepers and starts over. Every 4 minutes, groups rotate to another target and another distance (4 min).
6. To finish, each group explains which combination of zones let them close out, for example 5 + 2 + 2 + 1 (3 min).

Rules

• Always throw underhand from behind the line.
• Nobody steps into the target area until their group has thrown all three beanbags.
• The scorekeeper changes every game so everyone does the math.
• A beanbag on a line counts as the lower-scoring zone.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: the student throws seated from a closer line and can be the scorekeeper.
• Visual impairment: outline the target with hoops or raised rope and have a partner call out where each beanbag landed.
• Skill level: move the throwing line closer or farther for each group based on accuracy.

Learning goals

• Adjust throwing force and direction to hit a specific zone.
• Subtract mentally and plan which score is needed.
• Take turns and follow safety rules when collecting equipment.

Equipment for a class of 25

• chalk: 6
• beanbags: 18

Teacher tip

Watch for the classic mistake of grabbing a beanbag while someone else is throwing: mark a waiting zone behind the line. A small 1 zone painted on the outer edge makes sure every game can be finished.

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