Tula, Roña and Mancha: One Tag Game, Three Rule Sets

Tag has many names: tula in parts of Spain, la roña or las traes in Mexico, la mancha in Argentina and Chile. We play three versions back to back to warm up and see how one game changes its rules from place to place.

How to play

1. In a circle, everyone says what they called tag as a kid and where. Explain the three versions (2 min).
2. Classic tula: four players in pinnies are It; when they tag someone, they hand over the pinnie and switch roles (2 min).
3. La roña: whoever gets tagged covers the tagged spot with one hand and chases like that until they pass it on (3 min).
4. Mancha agachada: you can't be tagged while squatting, but you may only squat for three seconds and then you have to run (3 min).

Rules

• Tag with an open hand on shoulders, arms or back; no pushing.
• No tag-backs: you can't tag the person who just tagged you.
• The court lines are the boundary; stepping out makes you It.
• In la roña, the hand covers only shoulder, arm or back, never the face or legs, so everyone can run safely.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: a wheelchair user tags with a pool noodle and the area near them is reduced.
• Hearing impairment: each version change is shown with a sign and an agreed gesture.
• Low confidence: start as a helper running hand in hand with a tagger.

Learning goals

• Raise the heart rate gradually.
• Change direction and pace quickly.
• Recognize the same game across cultures and names.

Equipment for a class of 25

• pinnies: 4

Teacher tip

Before you start, ask what the game is called in students' families: there are usually more names than you expect. The common mistake is la roña turning into face touching, so remind them before that round.

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