Zero-Waste Kit: Invent a Game From the Bag
Each group gets a bag of different reused items and must create an active, safe game using only that material, then teach it to another group. It works on creativity, negotiation and the idea that you can play without buying anything.
How to play
- Hand out bags and conditions: everyone moving at once, nobody out for more than 30 seconds, and nothing gets broken (4 min).
- Design: the group tries ideas, picks one and writes its name, goal and three rules on scrap paper (10 min).
- Test run: play your own game and fix any rules that don't work (6 min).
- Swap: each group explains its game to another in one minute and they play it together; then switch (14 min).
- Feedback: each group gives one improvement idea for the other's game and packs all items back in the bag (6 min).
Rules
- No item is thrown at heads or stepped on.
- Everyone in the group contributes at least one idea.
- All items go back in their bag.
- If a game isn't safe, the teacher stops it and the group fixes it.
Variations
Easier
Groups get a card with a base game to modify.
Standard
New game under the given conditions.
Harder
The game must also include a referee role that rotates every minute.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: the group must design the game so the student can play every role.
- Hearing impairment: rules are also drawn on the sheet.
- Students with social anxiety: can be the one who writes and hands over the sheet instead of explaining aloud.
Learning goals
- Design a movement game with safety and inclusion in mind.
- Negotiate rules as a group.
- Value play with reused materials over buying new.
Equipment for a class of 25
- tote bags: 6
- plastic bottles: 24
- sock balls: 12
- cardboard tubes: 18
- scrap paper: 6
Teacher tip
Pack different bags so you don't get six identical games. Keep the sheets: they're ready-made material for future lessons. Common mistake: a game where only one person plays at a time; remind them of the everyone-moving rule.
PatioLab has "Zero-Waste Kit: Invent a Game From the Bag" and 8714 more activities ready to drag into your lesson and run from your phone in the gym.
More main activities for High School
"Switch!": Talking Defense Against Screens in 3v3
3v3 games where the offense uses ball screens and the defense must decide out loud whether to switch or stay with their player.
“Throw Like a Girl”: Your Other Arm Explains It
In pairs, each student throws with their dominant arm and their other arm while their partner checks technique.
1 vs. 1 Channel Duel: Dodge and Score
In narrow channels, an attacker with the ball tries to reach the line without the defender pulling a tag.