So often, we get wrapped up in trying to teach all the different continents that we forget to teach how to use the primary materials used to study the continents; the globe and maps! The lesson is a precursor to more advanced lessons about longitude and latitude. In this fun tag-based cat-and-mouse game, the students will reinforce their lessons on the different lines and zones of the globe and maps.

Materials: 

·      An ample open space (such as a gym or field). However, a gym or court works best because the lines used in the gym work ideally like those found on a globe. If the lesson is presented in an area without natural lines, then ropes or cones must be used to make the lines necessary for the game. Theoretically, the game can be played in the classroom. Still, since it is a fast-paced tag game, it may need to be slowed down to a walking pace, or maybe other movements are substituted for running (i.e., hopping or crawling). Again, if the game is played in a classroom that does not have natural lines, they will have to be added to the playing area to make the game work effectively.

·      Flag belts and flags

o   While not an absolute must, it will make the instructor's life much easier because the flag belt will serve as proof of a tag. In addition, if this material is available to the instructor, it will significantly increase the fun and organization of the game.

Minimum Amount of Students Needed: This game can be played with a minimum of four students but works better with an entire class.

Age: Lower elementary