Spinning Tops: Throw and Spin Challenges

The spinning top goes by many names across the country: trompo in Andalusia, baldufa in Catalonia and pión in Galicia, and it is one of the most widespread traditional toys. Students learn to wind the string, throw the top and keep it spinning, then take on skill challenges.

How to play

1. Share the regional names and show how to wind the top: string under the tip, tight wraps upward and the end held between the fingers (3 min).
2. Basic throw: tip up, arm back, throw down at the ground and snap the string back at the end. In pairs, 5 throws each and switch (5 min).
3. Make 5 groups of 5 for 4 stations of 3 minutes: spin inside a chalk circle; spin for over 10 seconds; scoop it up spinning into the palm; throw from the knees.
4. Rotate on the signal; each student counts how many challenges they complete.
5. Ring game (5 min): in groups, around a 1 m (3 ft) chalk circle, everyone throws at once and the last top still spinning inside wins. Play 3 times.

Rules

• Always throw at the ground and within your own space.
• Never hit or step on other students' tops.
• Before throwing, make sure nobody is within one step.
• When finished, wind up your string and put your top away.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: a wheelchair user throws onto a board set on the floor close by.
• Autism or shyness: the student practices with a trusted partner and starts with finger spins, away from an audience.
• Skill level: give beginners large, heavy tops, which spin more easily.

Learning goals

• Coordinate fine finger and wrist movements to wind and throw.
• Persist with a skill that takes many attempts.
• Learn the names and tradition of the spinning top in different regions.

Equipment for a class of 25

• spinning tops with string: 25
• chalk: 5

Teacher tip

Almost everyone fails at first by winding loosely or not pulling the string back: demonstrate slowly and let students who know how help others. Use plastic tops with blunt tips.

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