Pick Your Hoop: Three Heights, Same Challenge

A 4v4 basketball game where each shooter chooses a target: the hoop, a lower hanging ring or a trash can on the floor, each with its own shooting distance. Everyone can score, and the class discusses whether it's fair to give more points for the high hoop.

How to play

1. Set up three targets on each half court: the hoop, a ring tied to the wall bars about 6.5 ft high, and a large trash can on the floor (4 min).
2. Free practice: try all three and choose the one that's a real challenge, not impossible and not too easy (6 min).
3. 4v4 game on two half courts: every target is worth 2 points (8 min).
4. Second game with different values (hoop 3, ring 2, can 1) (8 min).
5. Quick discussion: which system got more people involved? Which is fairer? (4 min).

Rules

• Call out your target before you shoot.
• No contact on shots; hands up from about a yard away.
• Weigh down the trash can so it doesn't tip.
• Before scoring, the ball must pass through two players.

Variations

Adaptations

• Students who use wheelchairs: the low ring is at their shooting height and defenders can't block them.
• Low vision: bright tape around the target and a teammate claps next to it before the shot.
• Students afraid to shoot: get one defense-free pass inside their zone.

Learning goals

• Shoot accurately, adjusting force to the target.
• Choose a challenge that fits your level.
• Reflect on fairness in scoring.

Equipment for a class of 25

• basketballs: 4
• hoops: 4
• large trash cans: 4
• pinnies: 14

Teacher tip

No wall bars? Hang the ring from a goal frame with rope. Common mistake: the best players only shoot at the trash can; ask everyone to pick a main target before the game.

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