Ping-Pong Serve Cup Targets
In groups of three at each table, students practice the table tennis serve while trying to knock over cups placed in different areas of the opposite side. Students build an adapted legal serve, short and long placement, and focus on a precise motion.
How to play
- At each table, place three stacking cups on the far side: one near the net, one in the middle, and one in the back corner, worth 1, 2, and 3 points.
- Make groups of 3 per table: server, retriever, and scorekeeper; the retriever stands beside the table, not behind it.
- For 3 minutes, explain the serve: toss the ball up from an open palm, let it bounce first on your side and then on the opponent's side.
- For 9 minutes, each server hits sets of 8 serves, 4 forehand and 4 backhand; the scorekeeper adds points for cups hit or knocked over, and roles rotate after each set.
- Each student may film two serves on the class tablet and review the video with the group to fix their motion.
- Finish with a 4-minute challenge: the group that knocks over the most back cups in 2 minutes wins, then discuss what changes between a short and a long serve.
Rules
- A serve counts only if the ball bounces first on your own side.
- The retriever doesn't stand behind the far end of the table during serves.
- Wait until your teammate finishes a set before going in to collect balls.
Variations
Easier
Use larger towers of two cups and allow a direct serve with no bounce on your own side.
Standard
Sets of 8 adapted legal serves at cups worth 1, 2, and 3 points.
Harder
Use a single small cup and score only with sidespin serves.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: the student serves seated or from a wheelchair and the cups move closer to the net.
- Visual impairment: use high-contrast cups and have the scorekeeper call out where the ball bounced.
- Lower skill level: start with no toss, simply dropping the ball from the hand.
Learning goals
- Perform a table tennis serve that bounces on both sides.
- Direct the serve to short or long areas of the table.
- Use video to observe and improve your own technique.
Equipment for a class of 25
- ping-pong tables: 8
- mini rackets: 25
- light balls: 40
- stacking cups: 24
- tablets: 4
Teacher tip
The usual mistake is hitting without a bounce on your own side; remind students with 'my side, your side'. Without tablets, the scorekeeper uses a simple checklist.
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