Moving Molecules

Atoms travel around the space to music and, when it stops, the teacher calls a number and a way to group: students form molecules of that size in the pose called. It combines locomotor movement and balance with cooperation and quick math.

How to play

1. The whole class travels freely around the space to music, moving the way the teacher calls: walking, galloping, tiptoeing or backward (2 min of practice).
2. When the music stops, the teacher calls a number, for example molecules of 3, and students form groups of that size holding hands (4 min).
3. Add a pose (4 min): groups of 4 with only 6 feet on the floor, or pairs sitting back to back; the group holds it for 5 seconds.
4. Anyone left without a group is not out: they help the teacher count and join the next round.
5. Finish (4 min) with bigger and bigger molecules until the whole class forms one giant molecule in a shared balance pose.

Rules

• Join whoever is close by, and never turn anyone away.
• Walk, do not run, when looking for a molecule.
• Once groups stop, nobody pushes into a full group.
• Poses never involve climbing on anyone.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: groups go to the student in the wheelchair, and poses are adapted to their position.
• Shy or autistic students: they may keep a set partner who always joins their molecule.
• Fitness level: alternate fast and slow traveling to adjust intensity.

Learning goals

• Travel in different ways using the whole space.
• Group up quickly with any classmate.
• Solve balance poses as a group.

Equipment for a class of 25

• music player: 1

Teacher tip

If the same friends always group up, add a rule to join someone new each time. Choose numbers that do not always leave someone out.

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