Toss and Switch Places

In pairs, each with a ball, both partners toss their ball straight up at the same time, switch places, and catch their partner's ball. It requires coordinating the toss, the run, and the catch, and agreeing on a rhythm and a signal.

How to play

1. Form pairs, each student with a ball, facing each other 2 yards apart; pairs stay at least 3 yards from other pairs.
2. Tune-up (1 minute): each student tosses their own ball straight up, claps once, and catches it to control the height.
3. On "One, two, three," both toss their ball straight up, switch places passing on the right, and catch their partner's ball.
4. Every swap with both balls caught scores 1 point; play for 2 minutes and count the total.
5. Next level (90 seconds): move to 3 yards apart and allow one bounce before catching.
6. Final challenge (90 seconds): clap or touch the floor before catching, and the pair tries for 5 swaps in a row.

Rules

• Always pass on the right side to avoid collisions.
• Tosses go straight up, about 6 feet high, without drifting toward other pairs.
• If a ball gets away, walk to get it and restart the count.
• Both partners say the count out loud so they toss at the same moment.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: the partner tosses their ball toward the student in the wheelchair, who tosses theirs straight up without moving.
• Students with autism or shy students: practice first with the teacher counting for the whole class, then in pairs.
• Lower coordination: use larger soft balls and allow one bounce.

Learning goals

• Coordinate a toss, a move, and a catch in a short time.
• Adjust the height and direction of the toss.
• Sync up with a partner using a shared signal.

Equipment for a class of 25

• balls: 25

Teacher tip

The key is tossing high and straight; if balls drift, have students toss with two hands from the waist. It's a great warm-up for small spaces and creates lots of laughter and teamwork.

More activities like this

More warm-ups for Middle School