Footprint Path Challenge

Paths of footprints and handprints on the ground show how to move: two feet together, one foot, feet apart or hands down. Students read the path and adapt their movement, working on coordination and rhythm.

How to play

1. Before class, draw with chalk or tape down cardstock prints to make 4 paths of about 25 feet: two prints together mean a two-foot jump, one print means a hop, prints apart mean a straddle jump and handprints mean a bear crawl.
2. Explain the key with a sample path (3 min) and walk it slowly with the class.
3. Make 4 groups of 6, one per path; students start one at a time when the person ahead is halfway. Rotate paths every 3 minutes (9 min).
4. Partner challenge (3 min): with chalk, each pair draws a new section of 6 prints and another pair must complete it without a mistake.
5. Wrap-up (1 min): each student says which print was hardest and how they solved it.

Rules

• Step exactly where each print shows; if you miss, go back to the previous print.
• Wait your turn behind the starting line.
• When your hands are down, look ahead so you do not bump the person in front.
• Invented prints must be doable: test them first.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: a path of wheel prints, or handprints to touch while passing in a wheelchair.
• Autism: post the footprint key on a fixed sign at the start of each path.
• Fitness level: each path has a short and a long version to choose from.

Learning goals

• Combine different supports and jumps along a path.
• Read symbols and turn them into movement.
• Design a section of the path with a partner.

Equipment for a class of 25

• cardstock prints: 60
• sidewalk chalk: 13

Teacher tip

Chalk prints fade with use: touch them up between rotations or tape down laminated cardstock prints.

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