Instant Activity

Before class begins, write movements such as speed walk, jump, skip, gallop, crab walk, crawl (on mats or grass), slide, walk backwards, etc. on large paper or posterboard. Writing should be large enough for students in a group to read it.

While class is seated at the beginning of the lesson, give a brief explanation of the purpose of the activity (cardiovascular activity used to help strengthen our hearts, lungs and legs) as well as the procedures that will take place:

"When I say go, please get into your teaching groups (or count students into small groups) and quickly walk to the corner or side of the gym that has the same number as your group number (for example, group #1 goes to sign #1). Once you arrive, read the instructions on the paper on the wall--this will be the way you will move, once the music begins, until you get to the next poster on the wall. Also notice the direction of the arrow; this is the direction around the gym in which you will be moving". When you get to a new sign, read it and start your new movement. Keep on going until the music stops! When it does, please walk back here and have a seat.

Check for understanding by asking questions like: "How do you know at which corner to begin?"; "What do you do when the music stops?"

Once the students are ready, have them go to their corner and begin. When the music stops remind them to come have a seat. Check for understanding by asking them what was the purpose of the activity. It may make more sense to ask what part of the body they were strengthening and have the class feel their hearts.

Teaching Suggestions:

Music is highly recommended. This particular activity was performed using Bruce Andrew's "Pulse" CD.