Dots and Boxes Board Relay

Two teams play the classic game Dots and Boxes, but each line is drawn by a different runner coming from the back of the room. Students practice decision-making, anticipation, and quick, controlled movement.

How to play

1. Draw 2 grids of 5 x 5 dots on the whiteboard. Make 4 teams of 6, two per grid, lined up behind cones at the back of the room, about 6 m (20 ft) away (2 min).
2. Teams take turns connecting two neighboring dots with a horizontal or vertical line. Whoever closes the fourth side of a box writes their team's initial inside.
3. The runner power-walks to the board, draws one line, and returns to hand the marker to the next teammate. The other team's runner waits until the previous runner is back.
4. Closing a box earns another line on the same trip. When all 16 boxes are closed, the team with more wins. Play 3 games of about 4 minutes, switching opponents (12 min).
5. In the last game, each team chooses how to travel to the board: side shuffles, lunges, or giant steps (included above).

Rules

• One line per trip, except when closing a box.
• Only one runner at each grid at a time.
• Hand the marker over; never toss it.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: the student decides on a paper copy and a partner draws the line.
• Visual impairment: large dots, high-contrast markers, and a partner who describes the grid.
• Fitness: more work with 5 jumping jacks on the way back; less by starting halfway.

Learning goals

• Anticipate which line helps the other team.
• Make quick decisions on their turn.
• Move with control while respecting others' space.

Equipment for a class of 25

• Whiteboard: 1
• Dry-erase markers: 4
• Cones: 4

Teacher tip

After game one, ask what happens when someone draws the third side of a box. Place cones so the teams' paths don't cross.

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