Physical Education Games for Large Number of Elementary Students

Traditional team sports such as basketball and baseball always have a place in physical education classes, but they are sometimes inconvenient for large classes. Because they are so structured, usually only a few children play at one time, while the others have to sit and watch. Their rules may also be too complicated for younger elementary students. Fortunately, many classic games let the entire class participate at once and can be modified for different age levels.

  1. Capture the Flag

    • This classic game has been a favorite for years, and for good reason. Slight changes can make it an appropriate fit for any age level. The basic objective of the game is for a team to "capture" a flag or other object belonging to another team. Two teams keep the game simple; multiple teams can add levels of strategy. Divide the play space into territories for each team and place a flag in each one. Older students playing the game outdoors might find it fun to actually hide the flags. When the game starts, players must grab the flag from the opposing team. Opposing players can tag people in their territory, taking them out of the game. The first team to get a flag back to their home base wins.

    Chain Tag

    • Tag has countless variations, but Chain Tag is particularly good for large groups. In this version, when a player is tagged by the person who is "it," the two must join hands and run together. Each player tagged joins the chain. Eventually, most of the class will be running together. Emphasize safety rules before playing this game to make sure children do not drag slower runners.

    Duck Duck Goose

    • Duck Duck Goose is a less active game, but it is a good choice when the class has to stay indoors. Children sit in a circle, while one, Player A, walks around the outside. Player A taps each child on the head while walking, calling, "Duck," "Duck," "Duck," for each one. When he or she calls, "Goose," the child who has been tapped, Player B, must jump up and chase Player A around the circle. If Player A gets back to the original spot without being caught, he or she gets to sit down, while Player B takes the role of tapper. If Player B catches Player A, Player A must take another turn tapping.

    Red Light/Green Light

    • Red Light/Green Light is a great game to get kids moving and to also help them practice their reaction time and ability to follow directions. Face the members of the class, who should spread out in a large space. Alternately, you might ask one member of the class to be the caller. When you call out, "Green Light," the children must run forward. When you call, "Red Light," they must immediately stop. Children who are still moving are out of the game.