Objective: Groups compete to put a set of cards in order, according to a characteristic, in the fastest time. Props: A pack of cards for each group (for each group, prepare a pack of cards of items that can be put in sequence, such as numbers from 1 to 10; the alphabet; numbers counting by 2s, 5s, 10s; words to alphabetize; and so on). Step by step instructions
  1. First, divide the groups
  2. Give to each group a pack of the same type of cards.
  3. When all the groups have a pack, in unison they say, “1, 2, 3, get in line!”
  4. Each group tries to put their set of cards in the right order.
  5. When complete, the group announces, “I’m in line!”
  6. When everyone is finished, groups compare sequences. Play multiple times until a group is the fastest three times.
  7. That group is the winner.
Optional
  • Play in teams with no talking. Signaling is permitted. Everyone on the team must agree with the sequence before they can say, “We’re in line!”
  • Award points as groups finish their sequence. If there are four groups, the first one done receives four points, the second one gets three points, the third one earns two points, and the final player gets one point. Keep track of points earned during the time of play.
  • Flip a coin with heads being “high” and tails being “low” prior to sequencing the cards. If heads (high) is flipped, groups will sort the cards from high to low and vice versa.
Educator’s note: Let younger players take a token each time they are the fastest to help them remember how many rounds they have won. Place packs of matching cards in a plastic self-sealing bag. Label the bag with the skill and the number of packs.