Roll the Die: Left-Hand, Right-Hand Catch

A partner passing game where a giant die decides which hand throws and which catches: right, left, crossed or both. Students practice catching and throwing with both hands, following a code and working together to beat records.

How to play

1. Partners 6 to 10 feet apart with a soft ball. Code: 1 = throw and catch right; 2 = left; 3 = throw right, catch left; 4 = the reverse; 5 = both hands with a clap; 6 = partner's choice (2 min).
2. Roll the die in the center and call the number. For 1 minute, pairs pass with that combination and count catches in a row (4 min, four rolls).
3. Each pair remembers its record for every number and tries to beat it when it comes up again.
4. Every three rolls, one student from each pair moves one pair to their right (1 min).
5. Passing on the move: pairs travel side by side with side shuffles using the die's combination (4 min).
6. Triangles of three: the number sets the throwing hand and whether the pass goes right or left around the triangle (4 min).

Rules

• Toss underhand to your partner's chest height.
• If the ball drops, restart the count; no one is out.
• Keep 10 feet from the next pair and all throw the same direction.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: students using wheelchairs play at 6 feet with tosses to hand height.
• Low vision: a bright ball, a short distance and a "ready" call before each toss.
• Skill level: confident catchers move back or toss higher; students who struggle use a bigger ball.

Learning goals

• Throw and catch with the right and left hand.
• Link code numbers to sides of the body.
• Cooperate with different partners to improve a record.

Equipment for a class of 25

• giant dice: 2
• soft balls: 13

Teacher tip

The crossed combinations (3 and 4) are the hardest, so shorten the distance a step when they come up. Use two giant dice, one per half of the gym, so everyone sees the number.

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