Pass the Invisible Object
In a circle, students pass an imaginary object, and each one turns it into something else before handing it on: a ball becomes a kitten, the kitten becomes a heavy rock. Students practice mime, precise gestures and imagination.
How to play
- Form two standing circles of 12 or 13 and show how to hold an invisible object: hand shape, weight and size (2 min).
- Round one: the teacher passes an invisible ball and everyone receives and passes it the same way, keeping its size (3 min).
- Round two: whoever gets the object changes it into something else (heavy, tiny, sticky, alive) before passing it; the next person receives it with that weight (5 min).
- After each lap, the circle tries to recall in order which objects showed up (2 min).
- Final round in pairs: one mimes an object and the other uses it without naming it; then they guess each other's (3 min).
Rules
- No talking: the object is shown only through hands and face.
- Wait until the object is handed to you; do not grab it.
- Every idea is welcome, even the weird ones.
Variations
Easier
The teacher names the object out loud and students just mime it.
Standard
Each student changes the object before passing it.
Harder
Each object must be used once (eaten, opened, worn) before it is changed.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: the circle sits in chairs so everyone is at the same level.
- Visual impairment: the partner gently touches the student's hands to show the object's shape.
- Shyness: for the first turns, the student can pass the object without changing it.
Learning goals
- Mime objects by showing shape, weight and size.
- Invent creative transformations.
- Watch a partner's gesture closely in order to continue it.
Teacher tip
If the object 'shrinks' as it travels, pause and ask for it back at its real size: that detail is the learning. It works well right after a very active game.
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