Table, Scoresheet and Whistle: Class-Run 3v3

At each hoop, two teams of three play while the third team officiates with a referee, a scorekeeper and a timekeeper. It works rules knowledge, responsibility in each role and respect for decisions.

How to play

1. Explain the three roles and practice filling out a sample scoresheet: baskets, personal fouls and time (5 min).
2. First six-minute game at each hoop, with the third team at the table and officiating (8 min).
3. Second game with rotation: the officiating team plays and another team takes the table (8 min).
4. Third game with the last role rotation (8 min).
5. Review scoresheets and give officials feedback: each team names one thing the ref did well (6 min).

Rules

• Only the referee talks to players about calls.
• Complaints become a question after the game.
• The timekeeper stops the clock only when the referee whistles.
• Half-court games with no-contact defense.

Variations

Adaptations

• Wheelchair users: can referee from the sideline or keep score, and play with the usual adaptations.
• Deaf or hard-of-hearing students: referee with whistle and signals; the timekeeper raises a hand to mark the end.
• Students with dyslexia or writing difficulties: use a scoresheet with boxes to check off.

Learning goals

• Apply basic rules as a referee.
• Take on organizing roles responsibly.
• Respect classmates' officiating decisions.

Equipment for a class of 25

• basketballs: 3
• basketball hoops: 3
• pinnies: 18
• whistles: 3
• stopwatches: 3
• scoresheets: 9
• pencils: 6

Teacher tip

Print scoresheets with boxes before class; without stopwatches, a wall clock or the teacher's phone in airplane mode works. The usual problem is a ref afraid to blow the whistle, so back up every clear call out loud.

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