Step and Say

Equipment list

  • Small circle mats

  • Letter tiles

  • Number tiles

  • Math symbols (+, -, =, etc.)

  • Music note tiles

Explanation

Step and Say is an interactive activity that helps students practice various concepts by combining movement, teamwork, and subject-specific content. Here's how it works for different subjects:

ELA Setup:

  • Lay out mats in a line to form a path. Place letter tiles above each mat to create a word.

Math Setup:

  • Lay out mats in a line to form a path. Place number tiles and math symbols (+, -, =, etc.) to create a math sentence.

Music Setup:

  • Lay out mats in a line to form a path. Place music note tiles to create a rhythm sequence.

Instructions for ELA:

  • In small groups, students will work together to sound out the word. One student at a time will step on a mat and the group will say the sound of the letter on that mat. Together, the group will say the whole word.

Instructions for Math:

  • In small groups, students will work together to solve the math equation. One student at a time will step on a mat, and the group will say the corresponding math symbol. Together, they will say the answer to the equation.

Instructions for Music:

  • In small groups, students will clap and say the rhythm. One student at a time will step on a mat, keeping a steady beat. The group will clap and say the rhythm together.

Variation/Progression

For Math:

  • Setup: Place 4 numbers to create a 4-digit number.

  • Instructions: In small groups, students will read out the number. One student at a time will step on a mat, and the group will say the number based on its place value (e.g., "one thousand" for the first space). Together, they will say the whole number.

For English:

  • Setup: Lay out mats in a line, with syllable chunks above each mat to form a word or phrase.

  • Instructions: In small groups, students will sound out the word or phrase. One student at a time will step on the mat, and the group will say the sound for each syllable chunk. Together, they will say the whole word or phrase.

Participant feedback

“This is such a fun way to learn and move! It helps us focus and understand better.”

“Everyone enjoyed it, and we got to practice in a fun way while working together!”

Music Notes Example

Music Notes Example

Word Example

Math Example

ASK ID 2025-03-18-006-E

Grade 1 - 2, Grade 3 - 4Gasta DesignMathematics, English Language Arts, Other Subjects, French