Recess Game Bank: No Equipment Needed

Each group invents a recess game that needs no equipment at all, tests it with another group and rates it with a rubric for inclusion, intensity and simplicity. The best games form the bank that students will lead during school recess.

How to play

1. Present the task and the rubric: explained in one minute, at least ten players, nobody out for more than 30 seconds and everyone moving (3 min).
2. In groups of five, design a game with no equipment and rehearse it in their cone-marked zone (8 min).
3. Rotation 1: each group explains and leads its game for the neighboring group for 4 minutes; then roles switch (8 min).
4. Players fill out the rating card and give the designers one specific improvement (3 min).
5. Rotation 2 with the improved version and a different group (6 min).
6. The class votes on the four games that go into the recess game bank (2 min).

Rules

• No equipment allowed, and no use of fixtures such as benches or goals.
• No games with tackling, pushing or grabbing clothes.
• Any elimination lasts no more than 30 seconds or has a way back in.
• The design group explains the game without reading notes.

Variations

Adaptations

• Wheelchair user: the group makes sure the game lets them take part in every role.
• Visual impairment: the game includes sound signals and a buddy guide if there is running.
• Overweight or low fitness: the rubric rewards games with roles that include active rest.

Learning goals

• Design inclusive movement games that work at recess.
• Test, evaluate and improve a proposal based on feedback from others.
• Promote an active lifestyle at school through student leadership.

Equipment for a class of 25

• cards: 30
• cones: 24

Teacher tip

Keep the cards of the chosen games: they are the starting material for active recess week. Watch that the pressure to win the vote does not lead to high-contact games.

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