Dodgeball has always been a fan favorite of students. Still, amongst adults, there is a lot of debate about its validity as a legitimate PE game. While the game works well for teaching gross motor skills like throwing and catching, players who get hit early usually sit for long periods. The longer one sits, the less active they are, defeating the purpose of physical education. Many times the students who are hit first are the ones that need the most practice but get the least. What can be done to make dodgeball active for everyone? What if we could have the students practice these skills while learning about....atoms?

Enter Atomic Dodge Ball.

This game combines classic elements of dodgeball with the concepts of atoms and subatomic particles. Students are never out; they just change teams. This game is the best of both worlds because students get to play dodgeball in a way that maximizes physical play. In addition, they practice their ability to identify atoms by counting subatomic particles for atom identification.

Materials: 

·      An ample open space (such as a gym or field)

·      Cones or rubber disc dots if being played outside

·      Dodgeballs

·      Periodic table (make sure to have two sets for both teams)

·      Pennies to distinguish roles in the game

Minimum Amount of Students Needed: While this game could be played with as few as six people (3 V 3), it is much more fun with an entire class (20+).

Age: Upper Elementary and Middle School