Who's in Charge? Follow the Secret Leader

A group moves in unison following a secret leader who changes the moves, while someone from another group tries to figure out who's in charge. It builds attention to others and a quiet kind of leadership that works without giving orders.

How to play

1. In a circle of ten, everyone copies the teacher's moves to get the idea of moving together (2 min).
2. Two groups; group A picks a secret leader and moves in a circle copying their changes: steps, hops, arm gestures (3 min).
3. One student from group B steps into the middle and gets three guesses to find the leader; then switch roles (8 min).
4. Shared leadership: two secret leaders pass control with an agreed glance (5 min).
5. Discussion: how can you tell who's in charge? What does a good leader do so the group follows without words? (2 min).

Rules

• No one stares at the leader: copy by looking at several people.
• Movement changes are smooth and safe, with no jumping on others.
• The guesser can't ask questions or touch anyone.
• When the leader is found, celebrate and switch; no one is out.

Variations

Adaptations

• Wheelchair users: may lead with arm and trunk moves the whole group copies.
• Students with low vision: stand next to the secret leader and follow through a hand on their arm.
• Shy students: lead first in a small group of five.

Learning goals

• Lead a group in a subtle and clear way.
• Pay attention to others to move in unison.
• Create simple, expressive movement sequences.

Equipment for a class of 25

• cones: 4

Teacher tip

Have leaders change moves when the guesser has their back turned; it makes the game much better. Common mistake: changes too fast for the group to follow.

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