Jump Rope Wave: Canon Jumping in Lines
Groups of six standing in a line, each with a jump rope, jump first in unison and then in canon, each student starting one count after the one before to create a visible "wave." It builds individual rope skills, shared rhythm, and cooperation.
How to play
- Make four groups of 6 standing side by side, 6 feet apart, with ropes sized to their height. The first student in line is the "captain," who counts the beats (2 min).
- Unison: the group does 8 basic jumps together while the captain counts "one, two... eight," then 8 more with alternating feet. Repeat until you hear a single rope slap (3 min).
- Canon: each student starts their 8 jumps one count after the student before, so the jump travels down the line like a wave. Start with slow turns, then normal speed (4 min).
- Down-and-back wave: the wave goes from the captain to the end and comes back the other way; then add a special jump (a hop or a cross) that travels down the line (3 min).
- Each group builds a 16-count wave mixing unison and canon and shows it to another group, who guess where the canon starts (3 min).
Rules
- Keep 6 feet apart so ropes don't touch.
- If you miss, rejoin on the next count without stopping the group.
- Listen to the captain: only the captain counts out loud.
Variations
Easier
Do the canon in pairs (pairs start one after another) with 4 jumps per set.
Standard
Unison, an 8-jump canon, and a down-and-back wave with a special jump.
Harder
Use a two-count delay in the canon and a different trick for each half of the line.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: do the wave with arm moves and a ribbon, or keep the beat on a hand drum.
- Deaf or hard of hearing: the student before gives a nod when it's time to start.
- Fitness level: students who can't jump continuously yet swing the rope to one side and jump only on their count.
Learning goals
- Jump rope while keeping a shared rhythm.
- Coordinate with the group to perform a canon.
- Create and perform a short rhythmic sequence as a group.
Equipment for a class of 25
- individual jump ropes: 25
Teacher tip
A clean wave looks impressive: record it or have groups show it to another class. Start with slow turns, because rushing breaks the canon by the second student.
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