Back to Games Unit Activities
Hopscotch (Drawn with Chalk)
25 minutes
Small Groups (3-4 children)
Physical
Learning Objectives
- Develop balance and coordination
- Practice taking turns
- Learn traditional game rules
- Use recycled materials creatively
Preparation
- Find safe outdoor area with smooth surface
- Collect shells or clean bottle caps as markers
- Draw hopscotch grid with chalk
- Practice the game yourself
Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1Show children the hopscotch grid
- 2Demonstrate how to play: throw marker, hop on one foot, pick up marker
- 3Start with simple version - just hopping to end and back
- 4Add throwing marker when children are comfortable
- 5Emphasize taking turns and cheering for others
- 6Let children help draw new grids
- 7Adapt rules for different skill levels
- 8Celebrate everyone's efforts
Materials Needed
- Sidewalk chalk
- Shells or bottle caps for markers
- Safe outdoor space
Assessment
- Child attempts hopping movements
- Child takes turns appropriately
- Child follows basic game sequence
- Child shows good sportsmanship
Key Vocabulary
hop
jump
throw
marker
turn
balance
grid
Safety Notes
- Check surface for hazards
- Ensure adequate space between players
- Monitor for fatigue
Teaching Tips
- Start with easier version and build complexity
- Focus on fun rather than perfect technique
- Include children who may need modifications
- Use local materials for markers
Extensions
- Create different shaped hopscotch grids
- Add numbers or letters to squares
- Use different hopping patterns
- Create class hopscotch tournament