- Home
- Recreation and Leisure
- Physical Education
- Physical Activity and Health
- Fitness and Health
- 50 Games for Going Green
50 Games for Going Green
Physical Activities That Teach Healthy Environmental Concepts
by Carol Scaini and Carolyn Evans
128 Pages, 6
Activate your students' interest in environmental issues with these fun physical activities! With 50 Games for Going Green: Physical Activities That Teach Healthy Environmental Concepts, teachers and youth leaders will find easy-to-present games and activities to inspire and educate students about caring for the environment.
Authors Carol Scaini and Carolyn Evans have created a range of innovative activities to help students learn the value of reducing, reusing, and recycling and explore concepts of carbon footprint reduction, climate change, and global warming. 50 Games for Going Green includes
• warm-up, circuit, and station activities;
• physical fitness challenges, relay races, and literacy and drama activities; and
• cooperative games.
A special Eco-Thoughts feature offers simple take-aways with each activity, giving your students information to think about, discuss, and act on. Easily adaptable for a range of ages, abilities, and skill levels, this collection of activities will help your students get moving, thinking, and working together while learning what they can do to help the environment.
50 Games for Going Green makes learning a truly active experience and gives you creative ways to help students get their daily dose of moderate to vigorous physical activity. The activities can be played in the gym, classroom, or outdoors and require little or no equipment. Many activities repurpose everyday recyclable items for play, such as cards from recycled paper, balls from socks, and bowling pins from plastic bottles.
Detailed descriptions and illustrations make it easy to understand how to teach each activity, and the game finder helps you quickly choose the right one for each class. In addition, the book's easy-to-follow format provides information for each activity on equipment and setup requirements, instructions for play, variations, and safety considerations.
Taking an active learning approach to environmental stewardship makes caring for the Earth a tangible, memorable, and fun experience. By encouraging students to get active and go green, 50 Games for Going Green offers a hands-on way for students to contribute to their physical health and improve the health of their environment.
Chapter 1. Warm-Up Activities
Chapter 2. Relays
Chapter 3. Circuit and Station Activities
Chapter 4. Literacy and Drama Activities
Chapter 5. Fitness Activities
Chapter 6. Cooperative Activities
Carol Scaini, MEd, is a health and physical education teacher, guidance counselor, and member of the environmental team at Treeline Public School in Brampton, Ontario, Canada. Scaini is also a part-time health and physical education qualification instructor at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education/University of Toronto (OISE/UT) and a part-time instructor in the department of education at Tyndale University College in Toronto.
An experienced educator, Scaini is a frequent presenter at health and physical education conferences and has authored several health and physical education resources for a number of nonprofit organizations and health and physical education organizations.
Scaini is a member of Physical and Health Education Canada’s Health Promoting Schools Program Advisory Committee (HPS PAC) and an executive member of the Ontario Association for the Supervision of Physical Education and Health Education (OASPHE).
In 2011, Scaini earned an Award of Distinction from the Peel District School Board. She received the Dr. Andy Anderson Young Professional Award from PHE Canada in 2007 and the Prime Minister’s Award for Teaching Excellence in 2001. That same year, Scaini received the honor of Ontario Teacher of the Year.
In her free time, Scaini enjoys exercise, photography, technology, and time with her nieces, nephews, family, and friends. She resides in Toronto, Ontario.
Carolyn Evans, BEdu, is a teacher librarian with the Peel District in Mississauga, Ontario. She is also the coordinator of school environmental initiatives and chairperson of the school green team. With a passion for health and environmental issues in education, Carolyn has 30 years of teaching experience in physical education, classroom, special education, and library.
Evans has been a workshop presenter at various school, board, and provincial conferences and has developed various resources in health and physical education for not-for-profit and health and physical education organizations.
In 2007, Evans was given an Award of Distinction from the Peel Board of Education for her exemplary work on the Daily Physical Activity Implementation Committee. In 2010, she was nominated for the Prime Minister’s Award, a national award in recognition of teaching excellence’ the Premier’s Award, a provincial award for excellence in leadership; and another Award of Distinction from the Peel Board of Education.
Evans is a member of Physical and Health Education Canada (PHE Canada), Ontario Physical Health and Education Association (OPHEA), Canadian Intramural and Recreation Association (CIRA), HPE steering committees with Peel District School Board, ECOKIDS.ca, and Schools for a Living Planet–World Wildlife Federation (WWF).
In her free time, Evans enjoys being active with her family in the great outdoors, gardening, and reading.
Help students learn about endangered animals through play
We share the planet with millions of animals, insects, and birds, many of which are endangered.
On the Move With Endangered Animals
Eco Thoughts
We share the planet with millions of animals, insects, and birds, many of which are endangered. By using the three Rs, we can reduce the negative impact on our natural environment. When exploring nature, show respect by staying on paths and trails and taking waste and recyclables home.
Equipment
None
How to Play
1. Call out the actions for each endangered animal for students to perform as they move throughout the gym:
- Polar bear - Move on hands and feet, keeping arms and legs stiff.
- Frog - Hop on all fours.
- Seal - In a push-up position, use arms only to move and drag feet behind.
- Gorilla - Slowly walk in a low position, with hands sweeping the ground.
- Elephant - Walk, leaning forward with one arm swaying like a trunk.
- Eagle - Fly with outstretched arms.
- Cheetah - Run around the perimeter of the gym.
- Alligator - Walk with extended arms opening and closing like jaws.
2. Students perform the actions continuously until the next animal is called.
Variation
Challenge your students to identify other endangered animals and come up with an action.
Read more from 50 Games for Going Green by Carol Scaini and Carolyn Evans.
Teach students that recycling is fun and easy when we all pitch in
Find out how you can get recycling bins at your school and set up a recycling program.
50 Games for Going Green.
Pitch In
Eco Thought
Recycling can be easy when we all pitch in and do it together. Find out how you can get recycling bins at your school and set up a recycling program. Recycling is good for all of us.
Equipment
- A variety of recyclable materials (e.g., water bottles, newspapers, aluminum cans, plastic containers) or a variety of equipment (e.g., beanbags, skipping ropes, balls, scoops), enough for 2 items per student
- 2 recycling bins
- Stopwatch or gym clock
Setup
- Divide players into two teams, forming two lines.
- Place an empty recycling bin at the end of each line and half of the recycling items at the beginning of each line.
How to Play
1. On the go signal, both teams pass their recycling items down their line.
2. The first player passes the item over his or her head to the second player, who passes it through his or her legs to the third player, who passes it over his or her head, and so on.
3. The first team to safely recycle all of its materials can cheer, “We pitched in!”
Note
Ensure recyclable items are safe and clean.
Variations
- Change the method of passing the recyclable items (e.g., elbows only, knees only, feet only, sideways).
- Move the bin farther away so that the last player in line can pitch it into a recycling bin, using a different way of pitching it each time (e.g., with one hand, overhand, underhand, set shot, with both feet, backward).
- Challenge the teams to see who can put the most recyclable materials into their bin within a set amount of time.
- Challenge the teams to beat their score within a set time.
Use a fun activity to teach students to recycle paper
The choices we make every day have an impact on the environment. When we throw stuff away it usually ends up in a landfill, a giant garbage dump where we bury trash.
Keep on Recyclin'
Eco Thought
The choices we make every day have an impact on the environment. When we throw stuff away it usually ends up in a landfill, a giant garbage dump where we bury trash. Recycling helps reduce trash. Keep on recycling!
Equipment
- 10 pieces of recycled paper per 2 students
- 1 plastic lid per student (or cardboard box lids or clipboards)
- 4 to 8 recycling bins (or cardboard boxes or buckets)
Setup
- Divide the class into pairs.
- Spread the pairs along the sidelines on either side of the gym or playing area.
- Place several recycling bins along the centerline of the playing area.
- Give each pair a stack of recycled paper and one lid per player.
How to Play
1. On the go signal, one partner crumples a piece of paper into a ball.
2. Players use their plastic lids to hit the paper ball back and forth to each other, trying not to let it drop, while at the same time moving toward the recycling bin.
3. Once partners reach the recycling bin, they use their lids to hit their paper ball into the bin for a point.
4. Pairs run back to their starting line, crumple another piece of paper, and begin again.
Notes
- If the paper ball drops while moving toward the bin, players stop, pick it up, and continue.
- Missed shots are left on the floor and no points are awarded.
- Lids of any size will work; however, the larger the lid, the easier it is for students to play.
Read more from 50 Games for Going Green by Carol Scaini and Carolyn Evans.
Reuse old items to create new games
Healthy active living takes on a new meaning when we take a second look at items and find new ways to be active using old stuff.
50 Games for Going Green.
Sock It to Ya!
Eco Thought
Healthy active living takes on a new meaning when we take a second look at items and find new ways to be active using old stuff. Taking small steps to reuse simple items is a great way to help save the earth's resources and keep the earth healthy. Can you think of items that can be used to create new games?
Equipment
- Music
- 4 sets of large plastic soda pop bottles (6 bottles per set)
- Socks, recycled paper, or yarn balls, 3 per student
- 1 tennis racket (made with a wire hanger and pair of nylons) per student at the station
- 1 to 4 recycling bins
- Hand towels or dish towels, 1 per student at the station
Setup
- Divide the students into four groups.
- Have students perform the activity at each station and rotate when time is called or music stops.
How to Play
Station 1: Pop Bottle Bowling
Setup
- Set up the large plastic soda pop bottles as bowling pins.
- Roll up a pair of socks to use as a bowling ball.
Activity
Students use the sock ball to knock down the bottles. Each student should take three turns bowling, then reset the pins for the next player.
Station 2: Hanger Tennis
Setup
- Bend the wire coat hanger into a diamond shape to create a tennis racquet and pull one leg of the nylons over it to create a small tennis racket.
- Roll up one sock to make a small, light ball.
Activity
Students try the following challenges:
- Keep the ball in the air by bouncing it on the racket.
- With a friend, keep the ball in the air by hitting it back and forth to each other.
- Count the number of times you can bounce the ball without dropping it. Start counting again from zero if you drop the ball.
Station 3: Sock Ball Basketball
Setup
Place a recycling bin at the station and roll up a pair of socks to use as a ball.
Activity
Students perform a set shot by shooting the sock ball into the recycling bin. Students may increase the challenge by placing the box farther away from the starting point. They also may set up a basketball game by passing the sock and shooting it into the bin.
Station 4: Sock Towel Toss
Setup
Provide hand towels or dish towels to each student along with balls made of socks, recycled paper, or yarn.
Activity
Hold a small towel at each end, fold it in, and snap it out to toss a rolled-up sock into the air and catch. Practice passing the rolled-up sock back and forth to a friend.
Help students learn about endangered animals through play
We share the planet with millions of animals, insects, and birds, many of which are endangered.
On the Move With Endangered Animals
Eco Thoughts
We share the planet with millions of animals, insects, and birds, many of which are endangered. By using the three Rs, we can reduce the negative impact on our natural environment. When exploring nature, show respect by staying on paths and trails and taking waste and recyclables home.
Equipment
None
How to Play
1. Call out the actions for each endangered animal for students to perform as they move throughout the gym:
- Polar bear - Move on hands and feet, keeping arms and legs stiff.
- Frog - Hop on all fours.
- Seal - In a push-up position, use arms only to move and drag feet behind.
- Gorilla - Slowly walk in a low position, with hands sweeping the ground.
- Elephant - Walk, leaning forward with one arm swaying like a trunk.
- Eagle - Fly with outstretched arms.
- Cheetah - Run around the perimeter of the gym.
- Alligator - Walk with extended arms opening and closing like jaws.
2. Students perform the actions continuously until the next animal is called.
Variation
Challenge your students to identify other endangered animals and come up with an action.
Read more from 50 Games for Going Green by Carol Scaini and Carolyn Evans.
Teach students that recycling is fun and easy when we all pitch in
Find out how you can get recycling bins at your school and set up a recycling program.
50 Games for Going Green.
Pitch In
Eco Thought
Recycling can be easy when we all pitch in and do it together. Find out how you can get recycling bins at your school and set up a recycling program. Recycling is good for all of us.
Equipment
- A variety of recyclable materials (e.g., water bottles, newspapers, aluminum cans, plastic containers) or a variety of equipment (e.g., beanbags, skipping ropes, balls, scoops), enough for 2 items per student
- 2 recycling bins
- Stopwatch or gym clock
Setup
- Divide players into two teams, forming two lines.
- Place an empty recycling bin at the end of each line and half of the recycling items at the beginning of each line.
How to Play
1. On the go signal, both teams pass their recycling items down their line.
2. The first player passes the item over his or her head to the second player, who passes it through his or her legs to the third player, who passes it over his or her head, and so on.
3. The first team to safely recycle all of its materials can cheer, “We pitched in!”
Note
Ensure recyclable items are safe and clean.
Variations
- Change the method of passing the recyclable items (e.g., elbows only, knees only, feet only, sideways).
- Move the bin farther away so that the last player in line can pitch it into a recycling bin, using a different way of pitching it each time (e.g., with one hand, overhand, underhand, set shot, with both feet, backward).
- Challenge the teams to see who can put the most recyclable materials into their bin within a set amount of time.
- Challenge the teams to beat their score within a set time.
Use a fun activity to teach students to recycle paper
The choices we make every day have an impact on the environment. When we throw stuff away it usually ends up in a landfill, a giant garbage dump where we bury trash.
Keep on Recyclin'
Eco Thought
The choices we make every day have an impact on the environment. When we throw stuff away it usually ends up in a landfill, a giant garbage dump where we bury trash. Recycling helps reduce trash. Keep on recycling!
Equipment
- 10 pieces of recycled paper per 2 students
- 1 plastic lid per student (or cardboard box lids or clipboards)
- 4 to 8 recycling bins (or cardboard boxes or buckets)
Setup
- Divide the class into pairs.
- Spread the pairs along the sidelines on either side of the gym or playing area.
- Place several recycling bins along the centerline of the playing area.
- Give each pair a stack of recycled paper and one lid per player.
How to Play
1. On the go signal, one partner crumples a piece of paper into a ball.
2. Players use their plastic lids to hit the paper ball back and forth to each other, trying not to let it drop, while at the same time moving toward the recycling bin.
3. Once partners reach the recycling bin, they use their lids to hit their paper ball into the bin for a point.
4. Pairs run back to their starting line, crumple another piece of paper, and begin again.
Notes
- If the paper ball drops while moving toward the bin, players stop, pick it up, and continue.
- Missed shots are left on the floor and no points are awarded.
- Lids of any size will work; however, the larger the lid, the easier it is for students to play.
Read more from 50 Games for Going Green by Carol Scaini and Carolyn Evans.
Reuse old items to create new games
Healthy active living takes on a new meaning when we take a second look at items and find new ways to be active using old stuff.
50 Games for Going Green.
Sock It to Ya!
Eco Thought
Healthy active living takes on a new meaning when we take a second look at items and find new ways to be active using old stuff. Taking small steps to reuse simple items is a great way to help save the earth's resources and keep the earth healthy. Can you think of items that can be used to create new games?
Equipment
- Music
- 4 sets of large plastic soda pop bottles (6 bottles per set)
- Socks, recycled paper, or yarn balls, 3 per student
- 1 tennis racket (made with a wire hanger and pair of nylons) per student at the station
- 1 to 4 recycling bins
- Hand towels or dish towels, 1 per student at the station
Setup
- Divide the students into four groups.
- Have students perform the activity at each station and rotate when time is called or music stops.
How to Play
Station 1: Pop Bottle Bowling
Setup
- Set up the large plastic soda pop bottles as bowling pins.
- Roll up a pair of socks to use as a bowling ball.
Activity
Students use the sock ball to knock down the bottles. Each student should take three turns bowling, then reset the pins for the next player.
Station 2: Hanger Tennis
Setup
- Bend the wire coat hanger into a diamond shape to create a tennis racquet and pull one leg of the nylons over it to create a small tennis racket.
- Roll up one sock to make a small, light ball.
Activity
Students try the following challenges:
- Keep the ball in the air by bouncing it on the racket.
- With a friend, keep the ball in the air by hitting it back and forth to each other.
- Count the number of times you can bounce the ball without dropping it. Start counting again from zero if you drop the ball.
Station 3: Sock Ball Basketball
Setup
Place a recycling bin at the station and roll up a pair of socks to use as a ball.
Activity
Students perform a set shot by shooting the sock ball into the recycling bin. Students may increase the challenge by placing the box farther away from the starting point. They also may set up a basketball game by passing the sock and shooting it into the bin.
Station 4: Sock Towel Toss
Setup
Provide hand towels or dish towels to each student along with balls made of socks, recycled paper, or yarn.
Activity
Hold a small towel at each end, fold it in, and snap it out to toss a rolled-up sock into the air and catch. Practice passing the rolled-up sock back and forth to a friend.
Help students learn about endangered animals through play
We share the planet with millions of animals, insects, and birds, many of which are endangered.
On the Move With Endangered Animals
Eco Thoughts
We share the planet with millions of animals, insects, and birds, many of which are endangered. By using the three Rs, we can reduce the negative impact on our natural environment. When exploring nature, show respect by staying on paths and trails and taking waste and recyclables home.
Equipment
None
How to Play
1. Call out the actions for each endangered animal for students to perform as they move throughout the gym:
- Polar bear - Move on hands and feet, keeping arms and legs stiff.
- Frog - Hop on all fours.
- Seal - In a push-up position, use arms only to move and drag feet behind.
- Gorilla - Slowly walk in a low position, with hands sweeping the ground.
- Elephant - Walk, leaning forward with one arm swaying like a trunk.
- Eagle - Fly with outstretched arms.
- Cheetah - Run around the perimeter of the gym.
- Alligator - Walk with extended arms opening and closing like jaws.
2. Students perform the actions continuously until the next animal is called.
Variation
Challenge your students to identify other endangered animals and come up with an action.
Read more from 50 Games for Going Green by Carol Scaini and Carolyn Evans.
Teach students that recycling is fun and easy when we all pitch in
Find out how you can get recycling bins at your school and set up a recycling program.
50 Games for Going Green.
Pitch In
Eco Thought
Recycling can be easy when we all pitch in and do it together. Find out how you can get recycling bins at your school and set up a recycling program. Recycling is good for all of us.
Equipment
- A variety of recyclable materials (e.g., water bottles, newspapers, aluminum cans, plastic containers) or a variety of equipment (e.g., beanbags, skipping ropes, balls, scoops), enough for 2 items per student
- 2 recycling bins
- Stopwatch or gym clock
Setup
- Divide players into two teams, forming two lines.
- Place an empty recycling bin at the end of each line and half of the recycling items at the beginning of each line.
How to Play
1. On the go signal, both teams pass their recycling items down their line.
2. The first player passes the item over his or her head to the second player, who passes it through his or her legs to the third player, who passes it over his or her head, and so on.
3. The first team to safely recycle all of its materials can cheer, “We pitched in!”
Note
Ensure recyclable items are safe and clean.
Variations
- Change the method of passing the recyclable items (e.g., elbows only, knees only, feet only, sideways).
- Move the bin farther away so that the last player in line can pitch it into a recycling bin, using a different way of pitching it each time (e.g., with one hand, overhand, underhand, set shot, with both feet, backward).
- Challenge the teams to see who can put the most recyclable materials into their bin within a set amount of time.
- Challenge the teams to beat their score within a set time.
Use a fun activity to teach students to recycle paper
The choices we make every day have an impact on the environment. When we throw stuff away it usually ends up in a landfill, a giant garbage dump where we bury trash.
Keep on Recyclin'
Eco Thought
The choices we make every day have an impact on the environment. When we throw stuff away it usually ends up in a landfill, a giant garbage dump where we bury trash. Recycling helps reduce trash. Keep on recycling!
Equipment
- 10 pieces of recycled paper per 2 students
- 1 plastic lid per student (or cardboard box lids or clipboards)
- 4 to 8 recycling bins (or cardboard boxes or buckets)
Setup
- Divide the class into pairs.
- Spread the pairs along the sidelines on either side of the gym or playing area.
- Place several recycling bins along the centerline of the playing area.
- Give each pair a stack of recycled paper and one lid per player.
How to Play
1. On the go signal, one partner crumples a piece of paper into a ball.
2. Players use their plastic lids to hit the paper ball back and forth to each other, trying not to let it drop, while at the same time moving toward the recycling bin.
3. Once partners reach the recycling bin, they use their lids to hit their paper ball into the bin for a point.
4. Pairs run back to their starting line, crumple another piece of paper, and begin again.
Notes
- If the paper ball drops while moving toward the bin, players stop, pick it up, and continue.
- Missed shots are left on the floor and no points are awarded.
- Lids of any size will work; however, the larger the lid, the easier it is for students to play.
Read more from 50 Games for Going Green by Carol Scaini and Carolyn Evans.
Reuse old items to create new games
Healthy active living takes on a new meaning when we take a second look at items and find new ways to be active using old stuff.
50 Games for Going Green.
Sock It to Ya!
Eco Thought
Healthy active living takes on a new meaning when we take a second look at items and find new ways to be active using old stuff. Taking small steps to reuse simple items is a great way to help save the earth's resources and keep the earth healthy. Can you think of items that can be used to create new games?
Equipment
- Music
- 4 sets of large plastic soda pop bottles (6 bottles per set)
- Socks, recycled paper, or yarn balls, 3 per student
- 1 tennis racket (made with a wire hanger and pair of nylons) per student at the station
- 1 to 4 recycling bins
- Hand towels or dish towels, 1 per student at the station
Setup
- Divide the students into four groups.
- Have students perform the activity at each station and rotate when time is called or music stops.
How to Play
Station 1: Pop Bottle Bowling
Setup
- Set up the large plastic soda pop bottles as bowling pins.
- Roll up a pair of socks to use as a bowling ball.
Activity
Students use the sock ball to knock down the bottles. Each student should take three turns bowling, then reset the pins for the next player.
Station 2: Hanger Tennis
Setup
- Bend the wire coat hanger into a diamond shape to create a tennis racquet and pull one leg of the nylons over it to create a small tennis racket.
- Roll up one sock to make a small, light ball.
Activity
Students try the following challenges:
- Keep the ball in the air by bouncing it on the racket.
- With a friend, keep the ball in the air by hitting it back and forth to each other.
- Count the number of times you can bounce the ball without dropping it. Start counting again from zero if you drop the ball.
Station 3: Sock Ball Basketball
Setup
Place a recycling bin at the station and roll up a pair of socks to use as a ball.
Activity
Students perform a set shot by shooting the sock ball into the recycling bin. Students may increase the challenge by placing the box farther away from the starting point. They also may set up a basketball game by passing the sock and shooting it into the bin.
Station 4: Sock Towel Toss
Setup
Provide hand towels or dish towels to each student along with balls made of socks, recycled paper, or yarn.
Activity
Hold a small towel at each end, fold it in, and snap it out to toss a rolled-up sock into the air and catch. Practice passing the rolled-up sock back and forth to a friend.
Help students learn about endangered animals through play
We share the planet with millions of animals, insects, and birds, many of which are endangered.
On the Move With Endangered Animals
Eco Thoughts
We share the planet with millions of animals, insects, and birds, many of which are endangered. By using the three Rs, we can reduce the negative impact on our natural environment. When exploring nature, show respect by staying on paths and trails and taking waste and recyclables home.
Equipment
None
How to Play
1. Call out the actions for each endangered animal for students to perform as they move throughout the gym:
- Polar bear - Move on hands and feet, keeping arms and legs stiff.
- Frog - Hop on all fours.
- Seal - In a push-up position, use arms only to move and drag feet behind.
- Gorilla - Slowly walk in a low position, with hands sweeping the ground.
- Elephant - Walk, leaning forward with one arm swaying like a trunk.
- Eagle - Fly with outstretched arms.
- Cheetah - Run around the perimeter of the gym.
- Alligator - Walk with extended arms opening and closing like jaws.
2. Students perform the actions continuously until the next animal is called.
Variation
Challenge your students to identify other endangered animals and come up with an action.
Read more from 50 Games for Going Green by Carol Scaini and Carolyn Evans.
Teach students that recycling is fun and easy when we all pitch in
Find out how you can get recycling bins at your school and set up a recycling program.
50 Games for Going Green.
Pitch In
Eco Thought
Recycling can be easy when we all pitch in and do it together. Find out how you can get recycling bins at your school and set up a recycling program. Recycling is good for all of us.
Equipment
- A variety of recyclable materials (e.g., water bottles, newspapers, aluminum cans, plastic containers) or a variety of equipment (e.g., beanbags, skipping ropes, balls, scoops), enough for 2 items per student
- 2 recycling bins
- Stopwatch or gym clock
Setup
- Divide players into two teams, forming two lines.
- Place an empty recycling bin at the end of each line and half of the recycling items at the beginning of each line.
How to Play
1. On the go signal, both teams pass their recycling items down their line.
2. The first player passes the item over his or her head to the second player, who passes it through his or her legs to the third player, who passes it over his or her head, and so on.
3. The first team to safely recycle all of its materials can cheer, “We pitched in!”
Note
Ensure recyclable items are safe and clean.
Variations
- Change the method of passing the recyclable items (e.g., elbows only, knees only, feet only, sideways).
- Move the bin farther away so that the last player in line can pitch it into a recycling bin, using a different way of pitching it each time (e.g., with one hand, overhand, underhand, set shot, with both feet, backward).
- Challenge the teams to see who can put the most recyclable materials into their bin within a set amount of time.
- Challenge the teams to beat their score within a set time.
Use a fun activity to teach students to recycle paper
The choices we make every day have an impact on the environment. When we throw stuff away it usually ends up in a landfill, a giant garbage dump where we bury trash.
Keep on Recyclin'
Eco Thought
The choices we make every day have an impact on the environment. When we throw stuff away it usually ends up in a landfill, a giant garbage dump where we bury trash. Recycling helps reduce trash. Keep on recycling!
Equipment
- 10 pieces of recycled paper per 2 students
- 1 plastic lid per student (or cardboard box lids or clipboards)
- 4 to 8 recycling bins (or cardboard boxes or buckets)
Setup
- Divide the class into pairs.
- Spread the pairs along the sidelines on either side of the gym or playing area.
- Place several recycling bins along the centerline of the playing area.
- Give each pair a stack of recycled paper and one lid per player.
How to Play
1. On the go signal, one partner crumples a piece of paper into a ball.
2. Players use their plastic lids to hit the paper ball back and forth to each other, trying not to let it drop, while at the same time moving toward the recycling bin.
3. Once partners reach the recycling bin, they use their lids to hit their paper ball into the bin for a point.
4. Pairs run back to their starting line, crumple another piece of paper, and begin again.
Notes
- If the paper ball drops while moving toward the bin, players stop, pick it up, and continue.
- Missed shots are left on the floor and no points are awarded.
- Lids of any size will work; however, the larger the lid, the easier it is for students to play.
Read more from 50 Games for Going Green by Carol Scaini and Carolyn Evans.
Reuse old items to create new games
Healthy active living takes on a new meaning when we take a second look at items and find new ways to be active using old stuff.
50 Games for Going Green.
Sock It to Ya!
Eco Thought
Healthy active living takes on a new meaning when we take a second look at items and find new ways to be active using old stuff. Taking small steps to reuse simple items is a great way to help save the earth's resources and keep the earth healthy. Can you think of items that can be used to create new games?
Equipment
- Music
- 4 sets of large plastic soda pop bottles (6 bottles per set)
- Socks, recycled paper, or yarn balls, 3 per student
- 1 tennis racket (made with a wire hanger and pair of nylons) per student at the station
- 1 to 4 recycling bins
- Hand towels or dish towels, 1 per student at the station
Setup
- Divide the students into four groups.
- Have students perform the activity at each station and rotate when time is called or music stops.
How to Play
Station 1: Pop Bottle Bowling
Setup
- Set up the large plastic soda pop bottles as bowling pins.
- Roll up a pair of socks to use as a bowling ball.
Activity
Students use the sock ball to knock down the bottles. Each student should take three turns bowling, then reset the pins for the next player.
Station 2: Hanger Tennis
Setup
- Bend the wire coat hanger into a diamond shape to create a tennis racquet and pull one leg of the nylons over it to create a small tennis racket.
- Roll up one sock to make a small, light ball.
Activity
Students try the following challenges:
- Keep the ball in the air by bouncing it on the racket.
- With a friend, keep the ball in the air by hitting it back and forth to each other.
- Count the number of times you can bounce the ball without dropping it. Start counting again from zero if you drop the ball.
Station 3: Sock Ball Basketball
Setup
Place a recycling bin at the station and roll up a pair of socks to use as a ball.
Activity
Students perform a set shot by shooting the sock ball into the recycling bin. Students may increase the challenge by placing the box farther away from the starting point. They also may set up a basketball game by passing the sock and shooting it into the bin.
Station 4: Sock Towel Toss
Setup
Provide hand towels or dish towels to each student along with balls made of socks, recycled paper, or yarn.
Activity
Hold a small towel at each end, fold it in, and snap it out to toss a rolled-up sock into the air and catch. Practice passing the rolled-up sock back and forth to a friend.
Help students learn about endangered animals through play
We share the planet with millions of animals, insects, and birds, many of which are endangered.
On the Move With Endangered Animals
Eco Thoughts
We share the planet with millions of animals, insects, and birds, many of which are endangered. By using the three Rs, we can reduce the negative impact on our natural environment. When exploring nature, show respect by staying on paths and trails and taking waste and recyclables home.
Equipment
None
How to Play
1. Call out the actions for each endangered animal for students to perform as they move throughout the gym:
- Polar bear - Move on hands and feet, keeping arms and legs stiff.
- Frog - Hop on all fours.
- Seal - In a push-up position, use arms only to move and drag feet behind.
- Gorilla - Slowly walk in a low position, with hands sweeping the ground.
- Elephant - Walk, leaning forward with one arm swaying like a trunk.
- Eagle - Fly with outstretched arms.
- Cheetah - Run around the perimeter of the gym.
- Alligator - Walk with extended arms opening and closing like jaws.
2. Students perform the actions continuously until the next animal is called.
Variation
Challenge your students to identify other endangered animals and come up with an action.
Read more from 50 Games for Going Green by Carol Scaini and Carolyn Evans.
Teach students that recycling is fun and easy when we all pitch in
Find out how you can get recycling bins at your school and set up a recycling program.
50 Games for Going Green.
Pitch In
Eco Thought
Recycling can be easy when we all pitch in and do it together. Find out how you can get recycling bins at your school and set up a recycling program. Recycling is good for all of us.
Equipment
- A variety of recyclable materials (e.g., water bottles, newspapers, aluminum cans, plastic containers) or a variety of equipment (e.g., beanbags, skipping ropes, balls, scoops), enough for 2 items per student
- 2 recycling bins
- Stopwatch or gym clock
Setup
- Divide players into two teams, forming two lines.
- Place an empty recycling bin at the end of each line and half of the recycling items at the beginning of each line.
How to Play
1. On the go signal, both teams pass their recycling items down their line.
2. The first player passes the item over his or her head to the second player, who passes it through his or her legs to the third player, who passes it over his or her head, and so on.
3. The first team to safely recycle all of its materials can cheer, “We pitched in!”
Note
Ensure recyclable items are safe and clean.
Variations
- Change the method of passing the recyclable items (e.g., elbows only, knees only, feet only, sideways).
- Move the bin farther away so that the last player in line can pitch it into a recycling bin, using a different way of pitching it each time (e.g., with one hand, overhand, underhand, set shot, with both feet, backward).
- Challenge the teams to see who can put the most recyclable materials into their bin within a set amount of time.
- Challenge the teams to beat their score within a set time.
Use a fun activity to teach students to recycle paper
The choices we make every day have an impact on the environment. When we throw stuff away it usually ends up in a landfill, a giant garbage dump where we bury trash.
Keep on Recyclin'
Eco Thought
The choices we make every day have an impact on the environment. When we throw stuff away it usually ends up in a landfill, a giant garbage dump where we bury trash. Recycling helps reduce trash. Keep on recycling!
Equipment
- 10 pieces of recycled paper per 2 students
- 1 plastic lid per student (or cardboard box lids or clipboards)
- 4 to 8 recycling bins (or cardboard boxes or buckets)
Setup
- Divide the class into pairs.
- Spread the pairs along the sidelines on either side of the gym or playing area.
- Place several recycling bins along the centerline of the playing area.
- Give each pair a stack of recycled paper and one lid per player.
How to Play
1. On the go signal, one partner crumples a piece of paper into a ball.
2. Players use their plastic lids to hit the paper ball back and forth to each other, trying not to let it drop, while at the same time moving toward the recycling bin.
3. Once partners reach the recycling bin, they use their lids to hit their paper ball into the bin for a point.
4. Pairs run back to their starting line, crumple another piece of paper, and begin again.
Notes
- If the paper ball drops while moving toward the bin, players stop, pick it up, and continue.
- Missed shots are left on the floor and no points are awarded.
- Lids of any size will work; however, the larger the lid, the easier it is for students to play.
Read more from 50 Games for Going Green by Carol Scaini and Carolyn Evans.
Reuse old items to create new games
Healthy active living takes on a new meaning when we take a second look at items and find new ways to be active using old stuff.
50 Games for Going Green.
Sock It to Ya!
Eco Thought
Healthy active living takes on a new meaning when we take a second look at items and find new ways to be active using old stuff. Taking small steps to reuse simple items is a great way to help save the earth's resources and keep the earth healthy. Can you think of items that can be used to create new games?
Equipment
- Music
- 4 sets of large plastic soda pop bottles (6 bottles per set)
- Socks, recycled paper, or yarn balls, 3 per student
- 1 tennis racket (made with a wire hanger and pair of nylons) per student at the station
- 1 to 4 recycling bins
- Hand towels or dish towels, 1 per student at the station
Setup
- Divide the students into four groups.
- Have students perform the activity at each station and rotate when time is called or music stops.
How to Play
Station 1: Pop Bottle Bowling
Setup
- Set up the large plastic soda pop bottles as bowling pins.
- Roll up a pair of socks to use as a bowling ball.
Activity
Students use the sock ball to knock down the bottles. Each student should take three turns bowling, then reset the pins for the next player.
Station 2: Hanger Tennis
Setup
- Bend the wire coat hanger into a diamond shape to create a tennis racquet and pull one leg of the nylons over it to create a small tennis racket.
- Roll up one sock to make a small, light ball.
Activity
Students try the following challenges:
- Keep the ball in the air by bouncing it on the racket.
- With a friend, keep the ball in the air by hitting it back and forth to each other.
- Count the number of times you can bounce the ball without dropping it. Start counting again from zero if you drop the ball.
Station 3: Sock Ball Basketball
Setup
Place a recycling bin at the station and roll up a pair of socks to use as a ball.
Activity
Students perform a set shot by shooting the sock ball into the recycling bin. Students may increase the challenge by placing the box farther away from the starting point. They also may set up a basketball game by passing the sock and shooting it into the bin.
Station 4: Sock Towel Toss
Setup
Provide hand towels or dish towels to each student along with balls made of socks, recycled paper, or yarn.
Activity
Hold a small towel at each end, fold it in, and snap it out to toss a rolled-up sock into the air and catch. Practice passing the rolled-up sock back and forth to a friend.
Help students learn about endangered animals through play
We share the planet with millions of animals, insects, and birds, many of which are endangered.
On the Move With Endangered Animals
Eco Thoughts
We share the planet with millions of animals, insects, and birds, many of which are endangered. By using the three Rs, we can reduce the negative impact on our natural environment. When exploring nature, show respect by staying on paths and trails and taking waste and recyclables home.
Equipment
None
How to Play
1. Call out the actions for each endangered animal for students to perform as they move throughout the gym:
- Polar bear - Move on hands and feet, keeping arms and legs stiff.
- Frog - Hop on all fours.
- Seal - In a push-up position, use arms only to move and drag feet behind.
- Gorilla - Slowly walk in a low position, with hands sweeping the ground.
- Elephant - Walk, leaning forward with one arm swaying like a trunk.
- Eagle - Fly with outstretched arms.
- Cheetah - Run around the perimeter of the gym.
- Alligator - Walk with extended arms opening and closing like jaws.
2. Students perform the actions continuously until the next animal is called.
Variation
Challenge your students to identify other endangered animals and come up with an action.
Read more from 50 Games for Going Green by Carol Scaini and Carolyn Evans.
Teach students that recycling is fun and easy when we all pitch in
Find out how you can get recycling bins at your school and set up a recycling program.
50 Games for Going Green.
Pitch In
Eco Thought
Recycling can be easy when we all pitch in and do it together. Find out how you can get recycling bins at your school and set up a recycling program. Recycling is good for all of us.
Equipment
- A variety of recyclable materials (e.g., water bottles, newspapers, aluminum cans, plastic containers) or a variety of equipment (e.g., beanbags, skipping ropes, balls, scoops), enough for 2 items per student
- 2 recycling bins
- Stopwatch or gym clock
Setup
- Divide players into two teams, forming two lines.
- Place an empty recycling bin at the end of each line and half of the recycling items at the beginning of each line.
How to Play
1. On the go signal, both teams pass their recycling items down their line.
2. The first player passes the item over his or her head to the second player, who passes it through his or her legs to the third player, who passes it over his or her head, and so on.
3. The first team to safely recycle all of its materials can cheer, “We pitched in!”
Note
Ensure recyclable items are safe and clean.
Variations
- Change the method of passing the recyclable items (e.g., elbows only, knees only, feet only, sideways).
- Move the bin farther away so that the last player in line can pitch it into a recycling bin, using a different way of pitching it each time (e.g., with one hand, overhand, underhand, set shot, with both feet, backward).
- Challenge the teams to see who can put the most recyclable materials into their bin within a set amount of time.
- Challenge the teams to beat their score within a set time.
Use a fun activity to teach students to recycle paper
The choices we make every day have an impact on the environment. When we throw stuff away it usually ends up in a landfill, a giant garbage dump where we bury trash.
Keep on Recyclin'
Eco Thought
The choices we make every day have an impact on the environment. When we throw stuff away it usually ends up in a landfill, a giant garbage dump where we bury trash. Recycling helps reduce trash. Keep on recycling!
Equipment
- 10 pieces of recycled paper per 2 students
- 1 plastic lid per student (or cardboard box lids or clipboards)
- 4 to 8 recycling bins (or cardboard boxes or buckets)
Setup
- Divide the class into pairs.
- Spread the pairs along the sidelines on either side of the gym or playing area.
- Place several recycling bins along the centerline of the playing area.
- Give each pair a stack of recycled paper and one lid per player.
How to Play
1. On the go signal, one partner crumples a piece of paper into a ball.
2. Players use their plastic lids to hit the paper ball back and forth to each other, trying not to let it drop, while at the same time moving toward the recycling bin.
3. Once partners reach the recycling bin, they use their lids to hit their paper ball into the bin for a point.
4. Pairs run back to their starting line, crumple another piece of paper, and begin again.
Notes
- If the paper ball drops while moving toward the bin, players stop, pick it up, and continue.
- Missed shots are left on the floor and no points are awarded.
- Lids of any size will work; however, the larger the lid, the easier it is for students to play.
Read more from 50 Games for Going Green by Carol Scaini and Carolyn Evans.
Reuse old items to create new games
Healthy active living takes on a new meaning when we take a second look at items and find new ways to be active using old stuff.
50 Games for Going Green.
Sock It to Ya!
Eco Thought
Healthy active living takes on a new meaning when we take a second look at items and find new ways to be active using old stuff. Taking small steps to reuse simple items is a great way to help save the earth's resources and keep the earth healthy. Can you think of items that can be used to create new games?
Equipment
- Music
- 4 sets of large plastic soda pop bottles (6 bottles per set)
- Socks, recycled paper, or yarn balls, 3 per student
- 1 tennis racket (made with a wire hanger and pair of nylons) per student at the station
- 1 to 4 recycling bins
- Hand towels or dish towels, 1 per student at the station
Setup
- Divide the students into four groups.
- Have students perform the activity at each station and rotate when time is called or music stops.
How to Play
Station 1: Pop Bottle Bowling
Setup
- Set up the large plastic soda pop bottles as bowling pins.
- Roll up a pair of socks to use as a bowling ball.
Activity
Students use the sock ball to knock down the bottles. Each student should take three turns bowling, then reset the pins for the next player.
Station 2: Hanger Tennis
Setup
- Bend the wire coat hanger into a diamond shape to create a tennis racquet and pull one leg of the nylons over it to create a small tennis racket.
- Roll up one sock to make a small, light ball.
Activity
Students try the following challenges:
- Keep the ball in the air by bouncing it on the racket.
- With a friend, keep the ball in the air by hitting it back and forth to each other.
- Count the number of times you can bounce the ball without dropping it. Start counting again from zero if you drop the ball.
Station 3: Sock Ball Basketball
Setup
Place a recycling bin at the station and roll up a pair of socks to use as a ball.
Activity
Students perform a set shot by shooting the sock ball into the recycling bin. Students may increase the challenge by placing the box farther away from the starting point. They also may set up a basketball game by passing the sock and shooting it into the bin.
Station 4: Sock Towel Toss
Setup
Provide hand towels or dish towels to each student along with balls made of socks, recycled paper, or yarn.
Activity
Hold a small towel at each end, fold it in, and snap it out to toss a rolled-up sock into the air and catch. Practice passing the rolled-up sock back and forth to a friend.
Help students learn about endangered animals through play
We share the planet with millions of animals, insects, and birds, many of which are endangered.
On the Move With Endangered Animals
Eco Thoughts
We share the planet with millions of animals, insects, and birds, many of which are endangered. By using the three Rs, we can reduce the negative impact on our natural environment. When exploring nature, show respect by staying on paths and trails and taking waste and recyclables home.
Equipment
None
How to Play
1. Call out the actions for each endangered animal for students to perform as they move throughout the gym:
- Polar bear - Move on hands and feet, keeping arms and legs stiff.
- Frog - Hop on all fours.
- Seal - In a push-up position, use arms only to move and drag feet behind.
- Gorilla - Slowly walk in a low position, with hands sweeping the ground.
- Elephant - Walk, leaning forward with one arm swaying like a trunk.
- Eagle - Fly with outstretched arms.
- Cheetah - Run around the perimeter of the gym.
- Alligator - Walk with extended arms opening and closing like jaws.
2. Students perform the actions continuously until the next animal is called.
Variation
Challenge your students to identify other endangered animals and come up with an action.
Read more from 50 Games for Going Green by Carol Scaini and Carolyn Evans.
Teach students that recycling is fun and easy when we all pitch in
Find out how you can get recycling bins at your school and set up a recycling program.
50 Games for Going Green.
Pitch In
Eco Thought
Recycling can be easy when we all pitch in and do it together. Find out how you can get recycling bins at your school and set up a recycling program. Recycling is good for all of us.
Equipment
- A variety of recyclable materials (e.g., water bottles, newspapers, aluminum cans, plastic containers) or a variety of equipment (e.g., beanbags, skipping ropes, balls, scoops), enough for 2 items per student
- 2 recycling bins
- Stopwatch or gym clock
Setup
- Divide players into two teams, forming two lines.
- Place an empty recycling bin at the end of each line and half of the recycling items at the beginning of each line.
How to Play
1. On the go signal, both teams pass their recycling items down their line.
2. The first player passes the item over his or her head to the second player, who passes it through his or her legs to the third player, who passes it over his or her head, and so on.
3. The first team to safely recycle all of its materials can cheer, “We pitched in!”
Note
Ensure recyclable items are safe and clean.
Variations
- Change the method of passing the recyclable items (e.g., elbows only, knees only, feet only, sideways).
- Move the bin farther away so that the last player in line can pitch it into a recycling bin, using a different way of pitching it each time (e.g., with one hand, overhand, underhand, set shot, with both feet, backward).
- Challenge the teams to see who can put the most recyclable materials into their bin within a set amount of time.
- Challenge the teams to beat their score within a set time.
Use a fun activity to teach students to recycle paper
The choices we make every day have an impact on the environment. When we throw stuff away it usually ends up in a landfill, a giant garbage dump where we bury trash.
Keep on Recyclin'
Eco Thought
The choices we make every day have an impact on the environment. When we throw stuff away it usually ends up in a landfill, a giant garbage dump where we bury trash. Recycling helps reduce trash. Keep on recycling!
Equipment
- 10 pieces of recycled paper per 2 students
- 1 plastic lid per student (or cardboard box lids or clipboards)
- 4 to 8 recycling bins (or cardboard boxes or buckets)
Setup
- Divide the class into pairs.
- Spread the pairs along the sidelines on either side of the gym or playing area.
- Place several recycling bins along the centerline of the playing area.
- Give each pair a stack of recycled paper and one lid per player.
How to Play
1. On the go signal, one partner crumples a piece of paper into a ball.
2. Players use their plastic lids to hit the paper ball back and forth to each other, trying not to let it drop, while at the same time moving toward the recycling bin.
3. Once partners reach the recycling bin, they use their lids to hit their paper ball into the bin for a point.
4. Pairs run back to their starting line, crumple another piece of paper, and begin again.
Notes
- If the paper ball drops while moving toward the bin, players stop, pick it up, and continue.
- Missed shots are left on the floor and no points are awarded.
- Lids of any size will work; however, the larger the lid, the easier it is for students to play.
Read more from 50 Games for Going Green by Carol Scaini and Carolyn Evans.
Reuse old items to create new games
Healthy active living takes on a new meaning when we take a second look at items and find new ways to be active using old stuff.
50 Games for Going Green.
Sock It to Ya!
Eco Thought
Healthy active living takes on a new meaning when we take a second look at items and find new ways to be active using old stuff. Taking small steps to reuse simple items is a great way to help save the earth's resources and keep the earth healthy. Can you think of items that can be used to create new games?
Equipment
- Music
- 4 sets of large plastic soda pop bottles (6 bottles per set)
- Socks, recycled paper, or yarn balls, 3 per student
- 1 tennis racket (made with a wire hanger and pair of nylons) per student at the station
- 1 to 4 recycling bins
- Hand towels or dish towels, 1 per student at the station
Setup
- Divide the students into four groups.
- Have students perform the activity at each station and rotate when time is called or music stops.
How to Play
Station 1: Pop Bottle Bowling
Setup
- Set up the large plastic soda pop bottles as bowling pins.
- Roll up a pair of socks to use as a bowling ball.
Activity
Students use the sock ball to knock down the bottles. Each student should take three turns bowling, then reset the pins for the next player.
Station 2: Hanger Tennis
Setup
- Bend the wire coat hanger into a diamond shape to create a tennis racquet and pull one leg of the nylons over it to create a small tennis racket.
- Roll up one sock to make a small, light ball.
Activity
Students try the following challenges:
- Keep the ball in the air by bouncing it on the racket.
- With a friend, keep the ball in the air by hitting it back and forth to each other.
- Count the number of times you can bounce the ball without dropping it. Start counting again from zero if you drop the ball.
Station 3: Sock Ball Basketball
Setup
Place a recycling bin at the station and roll up a pair of socks to use as a ball.
Activity
Students perform a set shot by shooting the sock ball into the recycling bin. Students may increase the challenge by placing the box farther away from the starting point. They also may set up a basketball game by passing the sock and shooting it into the bin.
Station 4: Sock Towel Toss
Setup
Provide hand towels or dish towels to each student along with balls made of socks, recycled paper, or yarn.
Activity
Hold a small towel at each end, fold it in, and snap it out to toss a rolled-up sock into the air and catch. Practice passing the rolled-up sock back and forth to a friend.
Help students learn about endangered animals through play
We share the planet with millions of animals, insects, and birds, many of which are endangered.
On the Move With Endangered Animals
Eco Thoughts
We share the planet with millions of animals, insects, and birds, many of which are endangered. By using the three Rs, we can reduce the negative impact on our natural environment. When exploring nature, show respect by staying on paths and trails and taking waste and recyclables home.
Equipment
None
How to Play
1. Call out the actions for each endangered animal for students to perform as they move throughout the gym:
- Polar bear - Move on hands and feet, keeping arms and legs stiff.
- Frog - Hop on all fours.
- Seal - In a push-up position, use arms only to move and drag feet behind.
- Gorilla - Slowly walk in a low position, with hands sweeping the ground.
- Elephant - Walk, leaning forward with one arm swaying like a trunk.
- Eagle - Fly with outstretched arms.
- Cheetah - Run around the perimeter of the gym.
- Alligator - Walk with extended arms opening and closing like jaws.
2. Students perform the actions continuously until the next animal is called.
Variation
Challenge your students to identify other endangered animals and come up with an action.
Read more from 50 Games for Going Green by Carol Scaini and Carolyn Evans.
Teach students that recycling is fun and easy when we all pitch in
Find out how you can get recycling bins at your school and set up a recycling program.
50 Games for Going Green.
Pitch In
Eco Thought
Recycling can be easy when we all pitch in and do it together. Find out how you can get recycling bins at your school and set up a recycling program. Recycling is good for all of us.
Equipment
- A variety of recyclable materials (e.g., water bottles, newspapers, aluminum cans, plastic containers) or a variety of equipment (e.g., beanbags, skipping ropes, balls, scoops), enough for 2 items per student
- 2 recycling bins
- Stopwatch or gym clock
Setup
- Divide players into two teams, forming two lines.
- Place an empty recycling bin at the end of each line and half of the recycling items at the beginning of each line.
How to Play
1. On the go signal, both teams pass their recycling items down their line.
2. The first player passes the item over his or her head to the second player, who passes it through his or her legs to the third player, who passes it over his or her head, and so on.
3. The first team to safely recycle all of its materials can cheer, “We pitched in!”
Note
Ensure recyclable items are safe and clean.
Variations
- Change the method of passing the recyclable items (e.g., elbows only, knees only, feet only, sideways).
- Move the bin farther away so that the last player in line can pitch it into a recycling bin, using a different way of pitching it each time (e.g., with one hand, overhand, underhand, set shot, with both feet, backward).
- Challenge the teams to see who can put the most recyclable materials into their bin within a set amount of time.
- Challenge the teams to beat their score within a set time.
Use a fun activity to teach students to recycle paper
The choices we make every day have an impact on the environment. When we throw stuff away it usually ends up in a landfill, a giant garbage dump where we bury trash.
Keep on Recyclin'
Eco Thought
The choices we make every day have an impact on the environment. When we throw stuff away it usually ends up in a landfill, a giant garbage dump where we bury trash. Recycling helps reduce trash. Keep on recycling!
Equipment
- 10 pieces of recycled paper per 2 students
- 1 plastic lid per student (or cardboard box lids or clipboards)
- 4 to 8 recycling bins (or cardboard boxes or buckets)
Setup
- Divide the class into pairs.
- Spread the pairs along the sidelines on either side of the gym or playing area.
- Place several recycling bins along the centerline of the playing area.
- Give each pair a stack of recycled paper and one lid per player.
How to Play
1. On the go signal, one partner crumples a piece of paper into a ball.
2. Players use their plastic lids to hit the paper ball back and forth to each other, trying not to let it drop, while at the same time moving toward the recycling bin.
3. Once partners reach the recycling bin, they use their lids to hit their paper ball into the bin for a point.
4. Pairs run back to their starting line, crumple another piece of paper, and begin again.
Notes
- If the paper ball drops while moving toward the bin, players stop, pick it up, and continue.
- Missed shots are left on the floor and no points are awarded.
- Lids of any size will work; however, the larger the lid, the easier it is for students to play.
Read more from 50 Games for Going Green by Carol Scaini and Carolyn Evans.
Reuse old items to create new games
Healthy active living takes on a new meaning when we take a second look at items and find new ways to be active using old stuff.
50 Games for Going Green.
Sock It to Ya!
Eco Thought
Healthy active living takes on a new meaning when we take a second look at items and find new ways to be active using old stuff. Taking small steps to reuse simple items is a great way to help save the earth's resources and keep the earth healthy. Can you think of items that can be used to create new games?
Equipment
- Music
- 4 sets of large plastic soda pop bottles (6 bottles per set)
- Socks, recycled paper, or yarn balls, 3 per student
- 1 tennis racket (made with a wire hanger and pair of nylons) per student at the station
- 1 to 4 recycling bins
- Hand towels or dish towels, 1 per student at the station
Setup
- Divide the students into four groups.
- Have students perform the activity at each station and rotate when time is called or music stops.
How to Play
Station 1: Pop Bottle Bowling
Setup
- Set up the large plastic soda pop bottles as bowling pins.
- Roll up a pair of socks to use as a bowling ball.
Activity
Students use the sock ball to knock down the bottles. Each student should take three turns bowling, then reset the pins for the next player.
Station 2: Hanger Tennis
Setup
- Bend the wire coat hanger into a diamond shape to create a tennis racquet and pull one leg of the nylons over it to create a small tennis racket.
- Roll up one sock to make a small, light ball.
Activity
Students try the following challenges:
- Keep the ball in the air by bouncing it on the racket.
- With a friend, keep the ball in the air by hitting it back and forth to each other.
- Count the number of times you can bounce the ball without dropping it. Start counting again from zero if you drop the ball.
Station 3: Sock Ball Basketball
Setup
Place a recycling bin at the station and roll up a pair of socks to use as a ball.
Activity
Students perform a set shot by shooting the sock ball into the recycling bin. Students may increase the challenge by placing the box farther away from the starting point. They also may set up a basketball game by passing the sock and shooting it into the bin.
Station 4: Sock Towel Toss
Setup
Provide hand towels or dish towels to each student along with balls made of socks, recycled paper, or yarn.
Activity
Hold a small towel at each end, fold it in, and snap it out to toss a rolled-up sock into the air and catch. Practice passing the rolled-up sock back and forth to a friend.
Help students learn about endangered animals through play
We share the planet with millions of animals, insects, and birds, many of which are endangered.
On the Move With Endangered Animals
Eco Thoughts
We share the planet with millions of animals, insects, and birds, many of which are endangered. By using the three Rs, we can reduce the negative impact on our natural environment. When exploring nature, show respect by staying on paths and trails and taking waste and recyclables home.
Equipment
None
How to Play
1. Call out the actions for each endangered animal for students to perform as they move throughout the gym:
- Polar bear - Move on hands and feet, keeping arms and legs stiff.
- Frog - Hop on all fours.
- Seal - In a push-up position, use arms only to move and drag feet behind.
- Gorilla - Slowly walk in a low position, with hands sweeping the ground.
- Elephant - Walk, leaning forward with one arm swaying like a trunk.
- Eagle - Fly with outstretched arms.
- Cheetah - Run around the perimeter of the gym.
- Alligator - Walk with extended arms opening and closing like jaws.
2. Students perform the actions continuously until the next animal is called.
Variation
Challenge your students to identify other endangered animals and come up with an action.
Read more from 50 Games for Going Green by Carol Scaini and Carolyn Evans.
Teach students that recycling is fun and easy when we all pitch in
Find out how you can get recycling bins at your school and set up a recycling program.
50 Games for Going Green.
Pitch In
Eco Thought
Recycling can be easy when we all pitch in and do it together. Find out how you can get recycling bins at your school and set up a recycling program. Recycling is good for all of us.
Equipment
- A variety of recyclable materials (e.g., water bottles, newspapers, aluminum cans, plastic containers) or a variety of equipment (e.g., beanbags, skipping ropes, balls, scoops), enough for 2 items per student
- 2 recycling bins
- Stopwatch or gym clock
Setup
- Divide players into two teams, forming two lines.
- Place an empty recycling bin at the end of each line and half of the recycling items at the beginning of each line.
How to Play
1. On the go signal, both teams pass their recycling items down their line.
2. The first player passes the item over his or her head to the second player, who passes it through his or her legs to the third player, who passes it over his or her head, and so on.
3. The first team to safely recycle all of its materials can cheer, “We pitched in!”
Note
Ensure recyclable items are safe and clean.
Variations
- Change the method of passing the recyclable items (e.g., elbows only, knees only, feet only, sideways).
- Move the bin farther away so that the last player in line can pitch it into a recycling bin, using a different way of pitching it each time (e.g., with one hand, overhand, underhand, set shot, with both feet, backward).
- Challenge the teams to see who can put the most recyclable materials into their bin within a set amount of time.
- Challenge the teams to beat their score within a set time.
Use a fun activity to teach students to recycle paper
The choices we make every day have an impact on the environment. When we throw stuff away it usually ends up in a landfill, a giant garbage dump where we bury trash.
Keep on Recyclin'
Eco Thought
The choices we make every day have an impact on the environment. When we throw stuff away it usually ends up in a landfill, a giant garbage dump where we bury trash. Recycling helps reduce trash. Keep on recycling!
Equipment
- 10 pieces of recycled paper per 2 students
- 1 plastic lid per student (or cardboard box lids or clipboards)
- 4 to 8 recycling bins (or cardboard boxes or buckets)
Setup
- Divide the class into pairs.
- Spread the pairs along the sidelines on either side of the gym or playing area.
- Place several recycling bins along the centerline of the playing area.
- Give each pair a stack of recycled paper and one lid per player.
How to Play
1. On the go signal, one partner crumples a piece of paper into a ball.
2. Players use their plastic lids to hit the paper ball back and forth to each other, trying not to let it drop, while at the same time moving toward the recycling bin.
3. Once partners reach the recycling bin, they use their lids to hit their paper ball into the bin for a point.
4. Pairs run back to their starting line, crumple another piece of paper, and begin again.
Notes
- If the paper ball drops while moving toward the bin, players stop, pick it up, and continue.
- Missed shots are left on the floor and no points are awarded.
- Lids of any size will work; however, the larger the lid, the easier it is for students to play.
Read more from 50 Games for Going Green by Carol Scaini and Carolyn Evans.
Reuse old items to create new games
Healthy active living takes on a new meaning when we take a second look at items and find new ways to be active using old stuff.
50 Games for Going Green.
Sock It to Ya!
Eco Thought
Healthy active living takes on a new meaning when we take a second look at items and find new ways to be active using old stuff. Taking small steps to reuse simple items is a great way to help save the earth's resources and keep the earth healthy. Can you think of items that can be used to create new games?
Equipment
- Music
- 4 sets of large plastic soda pop bottles (6 bottles per set)
- Socks, recycled paper, or yarn balls, 3 per student
- 1 tennis racket (made with a wire hanger and pair of nylons) per student at the station
- 1 to 4 recycling bins
- Hand towels or dish towels, 1 per student at the station
Setup
- Divide the students into four groups.
- Have students perform the activity at each station and rotate when time is called or music stops.
How to Play
Station 1: Pop Bottle Bowling
Setup
- Set up the large plastic soda pop bottles as bowling pins.
- Roll up a pair of socks to use as a bowling ball.
Activity
Students use the sock ball to knock down the bottles. Each student should take three turns bowling, then reset the pins for the next player.
Station 2: Hanger Tennis
Setup
- Bend the wire coat hanger into a diamond shape to create a tennis racquet and pull one leg of the nylons over it to create a small tennis racket.
- Roll up one sock to make a small, light ball.
Activity
Students try the following challenges:
- Keep the ball in the air by bouncing it on the racket.
- With a friend, keep the ball in the air by hitting it back and forth to each other.
- Count the number of times you can bounce the ball without dropping it. Start counting again from zero if you drop the ball.
Station 3: Sock Ball Basketball
Setup
Place a recycling bin at the station and roll up a pair of socks to use as a ball.
Activity
Students perform a set shot by shooting the sock ball into the recycling bin. Students may increase the challenge by placing the box farther away from the starting point. They also may set up a basketball game by passing the sock and shooting it into the bin.
Station 4: Sock Towel Toss
Setup
Provide hand towels or dish towels to each student along with balls made of socks, recycled paper, or yarn.
Activity
Hold a small towel at each end, fold it in, and snap it out to toss a rolled-up sock into the air and catch. Practice passing the rolled-up sock back and forth to a friend.
Help students learn about endangered animals through play
We share the planet with millions of animals, insects, and birds, many of which are endangered.
On the Move With Endangered Animals
Eco Thoughts
We share the planet with millions of animals, insects, and birds, many of which are endangered. By using the three Rs, we can reduce the negative impact on our natural environment. When exploring nature, show respect by staying on paths and trails and taking waste and recyclables home.
Equipment
None
How to Play
1. Call out the actions for each endangered animal for students to perform as they move throughout the gym:
- Polar bear - Move on hands and feet, keeping arms and legs stiff.
- Frog - Hop on all fours.
- Seal - In a push-up position, use arms only to move and drag feet behind.
- Gorilla - Slowly walk in a low position, with hands sweeping the ground.
- Elephant - Walk, leaning forward with one arm swaying like a trunk.
- Eagle - Fly with outstretched arms.
- Cheetah - Run around the perimeter of the gym.
- Alligator - Walk with extended arms opening and closing like jaws.
2. Students perform the actions continuously until the next animal is called.
Variation
Challenge your students to identify other endangered animals and come up with an action.
Read more from 50 Games for Going Green by Carol Scaini and Carolyn Evans.
Teach students that recycling is fun and easy when we all pitch in
Find out how you can get recycling bins at your school and set up a recycling program.
50 Games for Going Green.
Pitch In
Eco Thought
Recycling can be easy when we all pitch in and do it together. Find out how you can get recycling bins at your school and set up a recycling program. Recycling is good for all of us.
Equipment
- A variety of recyclable materials (e.g., water bottles, newspapers, aluminum cans, plastic containers) or a variety of equipment (e.g., beanbags, skipping ropes, balls, scoops), enough for 2 items per student
- 2 recycling bins
- Stopwatch or gym clock
Setup
- Divide players into two teams, forming two lines.
- Place an empty recycling bin at the end of each line and half of the recycling items at the beginning of each line.
How to Play
1. On the go signal, both teams pass their recycling items down their line.
2. The first player passes the item over his or her head to the second player, who passes it through his or her legs to the third player, who passes it over his or her head, and so on.
3. The first team to safely recycle all of its materials can cheer, “We pitched in!”
Note
Ensure recyclable items are safe and clean.
Variations
- Change the method of passing the recyclable items (e.g., elbows only, knees only, feet only, sideways).
- Move the bin farther away so that the last player in line can pitch it into a recycling bin, using a different way of pitching it each time (e.g., with one hand, overhand, underhand, set shot, with both feet, backward).
- Challenge the teams to see who can put the most recyclable materials into their bin within a set amount of time.
- Challenge the teams to beat their score within a set time.
Use a fun activity to teach students to recycle paper
The choices we make every day have an impact on the environment. When we throw stuff away it usually ends up in a landfill, a giant garbage dump where we bury trash.
Keep on Recyclin'
Eco Thought
The choices we make every day have an impact on the environment. When we throw stuff away it usually ends up in a landfill, a giant garbage dump where we bury trash. Recycling helps reduce trash. Keep on recycling!
Equipment
- 10 pieces of recycled paper per 2 students
- 1 plastic lid per student (or cardboard box lids or clipboards)
- 4 to 8 recycling bins (or cardboard boxes or buckets)
Setup
- Divide the class into pairs.
- Spread the pairs along the sidelines on either side of the gym or playing area.
- Place several recycling bins along the centerline of the playing area.
- Give each pair a stack of recycled paper and one lid per player.
How to Play
1. On the go signal, one partner crumples a piece of paper into a ball.
2. Players use their plastic lids to hit the paper ball back and forth to each other, trying not to let it drop, while at the same time moving toward the recycling bin.
3. Once partners reach the recycling bin, they use their lids to hit their paper ball into the bin for a point.
4. Pairs run back to their starting line, crumple another piece of paper, and begin again.
Notes
- If the paper ball drops while moving toward the bin, players stop, pick it up, and continue.
- Missed shots are left on the floor and no points are awarded.
- Lids of any size will work; however, the larger the lid, the easier it is for students to play.
Read more from 50 Games for Going Green by Carol Scaini and Carolyn Evans.
Reuse old items to create new games
Healthy active living takes on a new meaning when we take a second look at items and find new ways to be active using old stuff.
50 Games for Going Green.
Sock It to Ya!
Eco Thought
Healthy active living takes on a new meaning when we take a second look at items and find new ways to be active using old stuff. Taking small steps to reuse simple items is a great way to help save the earth's resources and keep the earth healthy. Can you think of items that can be used to create new games?
Equipment
- Music
- 4 sets of large plastic soda pop bottles (6 bottles per set)
- Socks, recycled paper, or yarn balls, 3 per student
- 1 tennis racket (made with a wire hanger and pair of nylons) per student at the station
- 1 to 4 recycling bins
- Hand towels or dish towels, 1 per student at the station
Setup
- Divide the students into four groups.
- Have students perform the activity at each station and rotate when time is called or music stops.
How to Play
Station 1: Pop Bottle Bowling
Setup
- Set up the large plastic soda pop bottles as bowling pins.
- Roll up a pair of socks to use as a bowling ball.
Activity
Students use the sock ball to knock down the bottles. Each student should take three turns bowling, then reset the pins for the next player.
Station 2: Hanger Tennis
Setup
- Bend the wire coat hanger into a diamond shape to create a tennis racquet and pull one leg of the nylons over it to create a small tennis racket.
- Roll up one sock to make a small, light ball.
Activity
Students try the following challenges:
- Keep the ball in the air by bouncing it on the racket.
- With a friend, keep the ball in the air by hitting it back and forth to each other.
- Count the number of times you can bounce the ball without dropping it. Start counting again from zero if you drop the ball.
Station 3: Sock Ball Basketball
Setup
Place a recycling bin at the station and roll up a pair of socks to use as a ball.
Activity
Students perform a set shot by shooting the sock ball into the recycling bin. Students may increase the challenge by placing the box farther away from the starting point. They also may set up a basketball game by passing the sock and shooting it into the bin.
Station 4: Sock Towel Toss
Setup
Provide hand towels or dish towels to each student along with balls made of socks, recycled paper, or yarn.
Activity
Hold a small towel at each end, fold it in, and snap it out to toss a rolled-up sock into the air and catch. Practice passing the rolled-up sock back and forth to a friend.