Deck the Tree Memory Relay
Each team decorates a tree made of hoops on the floor, copying from memory a pattern of colored ornaments that can only be viewed from the start line. Students practice memory, shuttle running, and team communication.
How to play
- Form 5 teams of 5. Place 6 hoops in a triangle 50 ft in front of each team: that is the tree. At the start line leave a box of colored bean bags and a face-down card showing the ornament pattern (3 min).
- On the whistle, the first runner looks at the card for 5 seconds, picks a bean bag of the right color, runs, and places it in the correct hoop. Then they run back and high-five the next runner.
- Only the player at the start line may look at the card; teammates can help by remembering out loud.
- When the tree has all 6 ornaments, the team sits behind the start line. Then the teacher flips the card and checks: one point for each ornament in the right spot.
- If there are mistakes, the team can make one extra trip per ornament to fix it before the final score.
- Swap cards between teams and change the way students travel (hopping, sliding, bear crawl) each round. Play 4 rounds (13 min).
Rules
- Carry only one ornament per trip.
- Tag off with a high five behind the start line.
- Run out on the right side of the tree and come back on the left to avoid collisions.
- Place ornaments inside the hoop; do not throw them.
Variations
Easier
The tree has only 3 hoops and the card can be viewed for 10 seconds.
Standard
Six hoops, 5 seconds to look at the card, and one ornament per trip.
Harder
Ten hoops with two kinds of ornaments (bean bags and small cones), and each runner may look at the card only once.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: shorten the distance to the tree or let the student be the memory keeper who reads the card and coaches the runner.
- Autism: use cards with very clear colors and allow extra viewing time.
- Fitness level: alternate high-effort travel with fast walking from round to round.
Learning goals
- Memorize a sequence of colors and positions and reproduce it.
- Move quickly and with control in shuttle runs.
- Communicate with the team to fix mistakes.
Equipment for a class of 25
- hoops: 30
- bean bags: 30
- cards: 10
- cones: 10
Teacher tip
Make the cards before class by drawing the hoop triangle with colored dots. For a holiday feel, play winter music in the background and celebrate every finished tree with all the teams.
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