Mini Charity Run: Start, Laps, and Finish Line

The class organizes and runs a scaled-down charity run: half the class staffs every station while the other half runs, then they switch. It builds self-paced endurance and real event logistics.

How to play

1. The teacher explains the stations: starter, lap counters (one clothespin per lap), finish-line timers, water station, and cheer squad (4 min).
2. The staff sets up a roughly 200 m course with cones and tape, including start, lap, and finish zones (3 min).
3. Run 1: half the class runs for eight minutes at their own pace, mixing running and walking as needed; each lap earns a clothespin on the pinnie; count them at the end (10 min).
4. Run 2: switch roles (10 min).
5. Wrap-up: the class adds up all laps as a shared goal for the cause, reviews counting mistakes, and plans how it would work for the whole school (8 min).

Rules

• Everyone goes at their own pace; walking is allowed and counts the same.
• No individual rankings: everyone's laps are added together.
• Run in one direction and pass on the outside.
• Counters stand outside the course.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: takes part in a wheelchair on the same course or works as starter or station coordinator.
• Visual impairment: runs with a guide and tether; counters place the clothespin in their hand and say their name.
• Asthma or low fitness: mixes walking and jogging freely and keeps an inhaler handy.

Learning goals

• Sustain aerobic effort at your own pace.
• Organize the logistics of a race with multiple stations.
• Contribute to a shared charity goal.

Equipment for a class of 25

• cones: 20
• clothespins: 200
• stopwatches: 4
• pinnies: 14
• barrier tape: 1
• tally sheets: 6

Teacher tip

The class picks the cause (food drive, supplies for a local nonprofit, etc.); no money changes hands in class. Common mistake: counters lose track when several runners arrive at once; use two counters for every seven runners.

More main activities for Middle School