Command Cards
| Target: | Action Verbs | speed commands chance workout |
| Age: | younger children and up | |
| Duration: | 1 minute & up | |
| Class Size: | Small group and up | |
| Energy Level: | high | |
| Type: | Command Game | |
| Equipment: | small flashcards |
Introduction: This is a very simple command game. Players take turns giving each other commands using a small deck of verb cards. The game works because duplicate cards are used and because the duration of each players turn depends upon chance.
Set Up: Download the verb cards and make at least three sets. Select 13 or 16 cards to use in a game. You will need three to four cards of any verb used and one stop card.
Procedure: One player becomes the dealer, sits down and shuffles the cards. The other players stand up facing the dealear. The dealer lays down the cards one at a time calling out each command indicted. The players perfom the commands until the dealer reachers the stop card and says, "Stop!".
Variation: Use more cards and have more than one stop card. As a rule of thumb use one stop Card for every 12 verb cards and then add one more Stop card.
Notes: When introducing this game to young children use no more than three different verbs, perhaps, jump, spin and clap. If necessary show the cards or even do the actions. However, the aim is for the dealer to go through the cards as quickly as possible. Avoid pushing the children into doing the commands. Wait until they are ready. One way is to say, silently offer the cards and see if there are any takers. Once the children are used to being the dealer can say, "Whose turn?" after completeing a set. Anyone who wants a go can reply, "My turn!".
Especially at first, young children will forget the verbs when givign commands. It's useful if they are already familiar with the phrase, "What's this?" so they can ask fr help, but be prepared to do some peering and prompting in the early stages. Also be prepared to shuffle the cards for those who have difficulty and converesely watch for the mischievous ones who try to shuffle the stop card to the bottom of the deck!
getfile: Command Cards
PDF File B4, 3 pages (16 cards and back sheet), 577 kb
