Scarf Signal Follow the Leader
In groups of five, a leader holds a scarf and the others follow around the blacktop, changing how they move based on where the leader shows the scarf. Students work on visual attention, reaction, and a variety of locomotor skills.
How to play
- Make groups of 5 in a line behind a leader holding a scarf, and spread the lines out with room between them (1 min).
- Teach the code: scarf up, two-foot jumps; scarf down, walk low; scarf to one side, slide toward that side; scarf twirling, spin around once; scarf hidden, freeze like statues (1 min).
- First round: the leader walks or jogs and changes the signal every 5–10 seconds; the line follows without passing the leader and responds to each signal (45 sec).
- On the whistle, the leader hands the scarf to the last person and goes to the back; the new leader steps to the front. Repeat until all five have led for about 45 seconds (3 min).
- Final round: the teacher leads the whole class at once with faster signals and a few trick signals that are not in the code and should be ignored (1 min).
Rules
- The line never passes the leader.
- The leader looks back before turning and stays away from other lines.
- Land jumps softly and never push the person in front of you.
- Hold each signal at least 5 seconds so everyone can see it.
Variations
Easier
Use only three signals (up, down, and hidden) and walk.
Standard
Use all five signals while jogging, changing leaders every 45 seconds.
Harder
Add a second scarf of another color, one in each hand, with different signals for each color.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: adapt the responses (raise arms, turn the wheelchair, claps instead of jumps) and have the group move at the student's pace.
- Hearing impairment: the game is already visual; place the student second in line to see the leader clearly and pair the switch whistle with an arm signal.
- Fitness level: more active groups jog between signals; anyone who gets tired can always respond at a walk.
Learning goals
- Respond quickly to visual cues.
- Combine different locomotor movements and jumps with control.
- Lead a group using clear signals.
Equipment for a class of 25
- Scarves: 5
Teacher tip
Before starting, practice the code standing still with the whole class for one minute. Encourage leaders to change the pace as well as the signals; shy leaders can stick to three signals.
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