Pass and Race the Circle
In circles of five, the group hands a foam ball around while one runner races around the outside; if the runner gets back to their spot before the ball, the runner wins. Students work on reaction speed, running a curve, and quick cooperative passing.
How to play
- Make circles of 5 with about three feet between students and one foam ball per circle, keeping at least 5 yards between circles (1 min).
- One student steps out and stands outside next to their open spot; the other four start the ball with the student beside that spot (30 sec).
- On the signal, the runner makes one full lap around the outside clockwise while the ball goes around the circle twice, hand to hand, in the same direction (30 sec per round).
- If the runner gets back first, the runner scores a point; if the ball gets there first, the circle scores. Then the runner steps back in and the next student goes, until everyone has run 3 times (4 min).
- Final change: passes are now tossed to the next student and the direction changes every round (2 min).
Rules
- Always run on the outside and in the direction called, without touching the circle.
- The ball cannot skip anyone; it goes through every pair of hands.
- If the ball drops, the student who dropped it picks it up and continues from their spot.
- Keep at least 5 yards between circles so runners do not cross paths.
Variations
Easier
Circles of 4, the ball goes around once, and the runner jogs.
Standard
Circles of 5: the ball goes around twice and the runner runs one lap.
Harder
The ball goes around three times passed with the non-dominant hand, and the runner runs two laps.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: run the lap around a wider circle on a smooth surface, or be the starter and scorekeeper.
- Hearing impairment: give the start by dropping an arm instead of using your voice.
- Fitness level: adjust how many times the ball goes around to each runner's speed so the race stays close.
Learning goals
- React to a start signal and run a curved path.
- Pass quickly and accurately as a team.
- Accept the result of each round with good sportsmanship.
Equipment for a class of 25
- Foam balls: 5
Teacher tip
Adjust the number of ball laps so sometimes the runner wins and sometimes the circle does; if the circle always wins, runners lose interest. Keep circles away from walls and benches.
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