Whole-Class Mega Pyramid
The whole class designs and builds one giant pyramid divided into sections, with low stunts on the ends and three-person stunts in the middle. Students practice group planning, cooperation between groups and safe, synchronized building and breakdown.
How to play
- Cover a wide strip of the gym with mats. Divide the class into five sections of about 5 students: two ends, two sides and a center.
- Design (5 minutes): show the pyramid's outline on a sheet of cardstock, tall in the center and low at the sides. Each section sketches its stunt to fit its assigned height.
- Section rehearsal (8 minutes): each section builds its part three times with its calls and a spotter while the teacher checks the center stunts.
- Full build (5 minutes): on the teacher's 10-second countdown, sections build from the outside in; hold 5 seconds and take the photo.
- Break down from the inside out on the call "Down"; repeat the full build two or three times, improving speed and cleanliness.
- Four-minute wrap-up: discuss which section was most stable and what they would change in the design.
Rules
- Maximum pyramid height: a flyer standing on thighs or sitting on shoulders, always with a spotter.
- No section builds before the countdown or comes down before "Down."
- The teacher directly supervises the center stunts.
- Keep a safety lane at least 3 feet wide around the pyramid.
Variations
Easier
Build the mega pyramid with floor-level and kneeling stunts only.
Standard
Build with low stunts on the ends and spotted three-person stunts in the center.
Harder
Add a transition where the ends change stunts while the center holds.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: hold an end spot with a seated stunt or be the director who gives the countdown.
- Autism: assign a fixed section and spot with a photo of where it sits in the pyramid.
- Lower fitness: join a side section with floor-supported stunts.
Learning goals
- Plan a group acrobatic composition together.
- Coordinate the build and breakdown of several stunts at once.
- Take on responsibilities within a shared project.
Equipment for a class of 25
- mats: 20
- cardstock: 5
Teacher tip
Name a spokesperson for each section so questions come in an orderly way. The final photo is the best motivator: show it next lesson and discuss what to improve.
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