Submitted by Tami Mangusso, Aurora, Colorado

Idea posted June 2, 2003

Number of players: Unlimited
Materials: 4 balloons, 4 beanbags, 4 foam balls, and something to mark the center line (tape or rope)
How to play:

Mark the center line across the playing area. Divide the class into two teams. Each team sits on the floor in a scatter formation. I have them stretch their arms out to make sure they don't sit too close to each other. They also cannot move from their spot once the game begins (hence the name "Stuck in the Mud"). The game is played similar to volleyball. Start the game with just one ball, or balloon, or beanbag. Students gently pass the ball back and forth trying to get it to different people. If the ball hits the ground, wall, ceiling, or outside the playing area, then the other team gets the point (just like in volleyball). However, the team who missed the ball can try to steal the point back by answering a music question. I use questions that cover everything we have done throughout the year (notation, rhythm, melody, instruments, note values, etc.). The player that missed the ball will be the one to answer the question. This player can choose to get a clue from the teacher or pass the question to another teammate. If the question is answered correctly, then they get the point and continue the game. If they miss the question, the other team keeps the point.

Special rules:

1. Students who cannot stay in their spot have to sit out in the penalty box for 2 minutes.

2. Students cannot pass their questions to the same person every time.

3. A student can only have a question passed to him/her a maximum of 2 times. Otherwise students will always pick the brightest person on their team.

4. After a few rounds, add another ball to make it more challenging. Or you could have various items going: 1 balloon, 1 foam ball, 1 bean bag.

5. If more than one ball is missed at the same time, then all of the students can answer a question (even if it's on both sides).

6. Have students change spots after a few rounds. You could even have the teams switch sides.

Balloons work the best for this game, but you might have some students who are allergic to Latex. You may need to use the beanbags or balls instead. Feel free to use and edit to meet your needs.