Grab the Cup Listening Game

In pairs, with a cup on the floor between them, students touch the body parts the teacher calls out and grab the cup only when they hear the key word. Students practice active listening, reaction time, and self-control when trick words come up.

How to play

1. Make 12 pairs and one group of three, standing face to face one step apart with a cup upside down on the floor between them, spread around the room (1 min).
2. The teacher calls body parts (“head,” “knees,” “ankles”) and both partners touch them fast. On “cup!”, they squat to grab it: whoever gets it scores a point (3 min).
3. Add sound-alike trick words: “cut,” “cap,” “pup.” Grabbing on a trick word gives the point to your partner (4 min).
4. Every 2 minutes, whoever is ahead moves one pair clockwise, so opponents change often (4 min).
5. Final round: the teacher tells a short story and students grab the cup every time they hear the word “cup” (3 min).

Rules

• Grab with one hand and don't push your partner's hand away.
• Squat by bending the knees; never dive head-first.
• Listen quietly so everyone can hear the calls.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: play seated with the cup on a desk.
• Hearing impairment: give calls with picture cards and use a red card for the cup.
• Fitness: more effort with a squat on every call; less by playing seated.

Learning goals

• React quickly to a specific sound cue.
• Hold back a response to trick words.
• Identify and name body parts.

Equipment for a class of 25

• Plastic cups: 13

Teacher tip

Space pairs well apart, since head bumps are the main risk. Vary the pause before the key word; the surprise is what makes it fun.

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