Parachute Steal the Bacon
A parachute version of Steal the Bacon: two numbered teams hold the parachute, and when it is lifted the teacher calls a number; the two players with that number run underneath to grab the scarf in the center and get back to their spot before the fabric comes down. Students work on focus, reaction speed, and decision making.
How to play
- Make two teams, each on one half of the parachute, and number the players on each team from 1 to 12 or 13 (2 min).
- Place a scarf on the floor in the center under the parachute and practice lifting together (1 min).
- During a lift, the teacher calls a number: the two players with that number go underneath; whoever grabs the scarf tries to get back to their spot without being tagged (5 min).
- If they get back without being tagged, their team earns a point; if they are tagged, the point goes to the other team; if nobody grabs the scarf before the fabric comes down, no point (2 min).
- To get more students moving, call two numbers at once with two different-colored scarves in the center (3 min).
- Finish with simple math: the teacher calls "Three plus two!" and the number fives go (2 min).
Rules
- Always go in and out through your own spot, never over the top of the parachute.
- Tag with a hand on the back or shoulder, with no pushing.
- Holders never yank the fabric down to get in the runners' way.
Variations
Easier
No chasing: just grab the scarf and get back before the fabric comes down.
Standard
Two numbered teams, one scarf, and a tag on the way back.
Harder
Before grabbing the scarf, both runners must circle a cone under the fabric, or the number is called as a math problem.
Adaptations
- Students who use wheelchairs: put the scarf on a tall cone and have the group hold the fabric up longer; the opponent starts one second later.
- Students who are deaf or hard of hearing: also show the number with fingers or a card.
- Students with less speed: always matched with an opponent of similar ability through the numbering.
Learning goals
- Stay focused to respond to the right signal.
- React and decide whether to grab the scarf or wait for the opponent.
- Follow the tagging and scoring rules.
Equipment for a class of 25
- play parachute: 1
- scarves: 2
Teacher tip
Number each team so matching numbers are about the same ability. Remind the class that the fabric has to go up high, so do two or three practice lifts first.
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