Plastic Bag Kite Run

Each student builds a kite from a plastic grocery bag, two straws, and string, then flies it while running around the field through speed, direction, and endurance challenges. It works on varied running, feeling the wind, and independence.

How to play

1. Build it (8 min): cut the bag into a trapezoid, tape two straws on it vertically, reinforce two corners, tie a 2-foot bridle between them, and tie a 15-foot line to its middle.
2. First flight (3 min): with the wind at your back, run 15 yards with your arm out and watch the kite climb.
3. Lanes and turns (8 min): run out fast and back slowly in cone lanes without letting the kite touch down; then follow the teacher's arm signals for direction changes.
4. Long run (4 min): jog nonstop around the field; each lap without the kite landing earns a personal point.
5. Air show (2 min): in groups of five, run in a flock formation and land all the kites at once.

Rules

• Run looking ahead, not back at the kite.
• Keep 10 feet apart so lines don't tangle.
• Bags never go on anyone's head or near the face.
• Safety: stay away from trees, goals, and wires; never wrap the line around your hand.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: flies the kite from a wheelchair pushed by a partner or while still in the breeze.
• Hearing impairment: show direction changes with colored flags.
• Fitness level: chooses to jog or walk briskly on the long run; every lap counts.

Learning goals

• Adjust speed and direction to keep the kite flying.
• Independently build a flying object from reused materials.
• Enjoy an outdoor activity safely.

Equipment for a class of 25

• plastic grocery bags: 30
• string: 1
• paper straws: 60
• masking tape: 5
• cones: 12

Teacher tip

Pick a breezy day; with no wind, running does the work. Afterward, collect every bag and string so no plastic is left on the playground.

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