Parachute Snake Shake-Off
Several jump ropes go on the parachute as snakes, and each team shakes its side to send them off over the other team's edge. Students work on reaction time, upper-body strength, and making decisions as a group.
How to play
- Split the class into two teams around the parachute, one on each side of an imaginary line marked by two cones (1 min).
- Drop six loose jump ropes in the center: they are the snakes, and nobody wants them leaving over their side (1 min).
- On the whistle, each team shakes its half with quick waves to push the snakes to the other side for 40 seconds (2 min).
- At the end of the round, each rope that fell off a team's edge is a point for the other team; ropes still on top don't count (2 min).
- Before each round, teams get 20 seconds to agree on a plan: short waves, big waves, or alternating (2 min).
- Play six rounds, rotating four handles to the left each time so the teams mix (7 min).
Rules
- Ropes are never touched with hands during a round; only the parachute moves them.
- If a rope gets tangled on an arm, the whistle stops play and it is untangled calmly.
- Nobody wraps a hand in a handle or a rope.
- The teacher's count is final when there is a doubt.
Variations
Easier
Use three thick ropes and have everyone shake together against the snakes, with no teams.
Standard
Six ropes, two teams, and 40-second rounds.
Harder
Add two balls that must also stay on top: each ball that falls costs the team a point.
Adaptations
- Students with limited mobility: hold the parachute while seated or from a wheelchair and can be the rope counter.
- Students with visual impairments: use brightly colored ropes and a partner who calls out where they are.
- Students with less strength: stand next to stronger classmates and alternate short waves with 10-second breaks.
Learning goals
- React quickly to the changing position of the ropes.
- Decide as a group which kind of wave works best at each moment.
- Use arm strength in a controlled, safe way.
Equipment for a class of 25
- play parachute: 1
- individual jump ropes: 6
Teacher tip
Ropes about three feet long work best; long ones tangle. Remind students that you win by pushing the snakes away with waves, not by pulling the parachute toward you.
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