Group Juggle

In circles of 8, students toss a ball in the same order every time, saying the name of the person catching it; then more balls are added at once. Students practice focus, accurate passing, and communication within the group.

How to play

1. Make 3 circles of 8 (one of 9). The starter says a classmate's name and tosses the ball underhand; that student does the same to someone who hasn't had it yet (3 min).
2. When everyone has caught it, it returns to the starter. That order is the "chain," and the group repeats it 3 times to memorize it.
3. Add a second ball in the same chain and, once that works, a third. Always say the name before tossing (5 min).
4. Group challenge: complete a full round with 3 balls without a drop. If one falls, pick it up and keep going (4 min).
5. To finish, try the chain in reverse with one ball (3 min).

Rules

• Always say the name and make eye contact before tossing.
• Toss softly and underhand, never hard or at someone's face.
• The tosser picks up any dropped ball, and nobody laughs at mistakes.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: a student using a wheelchair is part of the circle and can get the ball rolled or bounced.
• Visual impairment: use a ball with a bell, and the tosser claps before tossing.
• Skill level: bounce the ball once to students who find catching hard.

Learning goals

• Keep track of several balls at once.
• Adjust the force and direction of a toss.
• Communicate with names and eye contact before acting.

Equipment for a class of 25

• soft balls: 9

Teacher tip

This is great for learning names with a new class. The usual mistake is tossing without warning, so stop and remind them: name, eyes, toss.

More activities like this

More main activities for Elementary