For each group:

Plastic cups
Stacking tools such as tongs or straps with handles

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This game can be played in an indoor space with tables.

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To learn how to play \"Ultimate Cup Stack,\" click the link to watch an easy-to-learn tutorial video.

Ultimate Cup Stack Tutorial Video (Captions)

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By following these instructions, educators can facilitate \"Ultimate Cup Stack,\" a game that promotes team building, coordination, and problem-solving in a fun and competitive environment.
Introduction to Ultimate Cup Stack
- Gather Players: Welcome the group to an indoor space with tables and introduce the game as \"Ultimate Cup Stack.\"
- Explain the Objective: Teams will compete to stack cups into a pyramid using a special tool without using their hands.
Game Setup
- Arrange tables in the play area where the cup pyramids will be built.
- Provide each team with an equal number of cups needed to build a pyramid.
- Give each team three tools for stacking cups. The tools can be something like tongs, straps with handles, or other devices that allow multiple players to grip and lift cups without direct hand contact.
- Ensure all players are familiar with how to use the tools.
- Divide players into teams of 6 to 10.
- Each team should designate 3 or 4 players to operate the stacking tool at any given time.
How to Play
- On the start signal, the first group of players from each team uses the tool to pick up a cup from the starting table.
- Players carry the cup to the next table and begin constructing a pyramid according to a specified pattern.
- Teams continue this process in a relay fashion until the pyramid is complete.
- The first team to successfully build their pyramid wins the game.
Conducting the Game
- Players are not allowed to touch the cups with their hands—only the tool can make contact.
- If a cup falls, a leader may pick it up and return it to the starting table.
- Teams must pass the tool to the next group in the relay after placing a cup.
- Allow time for all groups to practice with the tool before starting the game.
- Encourage teamwork and communication as players will need to work together to manipulate the tool.
- Set a time frame for teams to complete the challenge, ensuring everyone has a chance to finish.
- Cheer on the teams with positive affirmations like \"Nicely done!\" or \"You got to win this for me.\"
- Even if a team does not win, encourage them to complete the challenge within the set time frame.
Conclusion of the Game
- Congratulate all teams on their effort and teamwork.
- Discuss strategies that were effective or areas for improvement.
- Encourage the players to continue practicing and to enjoy the game.
Debrief Questions
- What do you think was the most difficult part of playing Ultimate Cup Stack?
- What strategy did your group use?
- Which team members were vocal leaders? How did that make you feel?
- What type of pressure did you or your teammates give to not make a mistake? Explain.
- How did you feel when your pyramid was not built fast enough or when there was a setback (i.e., dropping a cup)?
- Can you give an example from school, home, or work when mistakes were made? What can we say or do to make people feel better when mistakes are made?

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\"By engaging in STEM activities that go beyond textbooks and lectures, youth can explore their interests, develop critical thinking skills, and gain practical knowledge that transcends traditional education. Investing in these experiences empowers them to become well-rounded individuals equipped to thrive in an ever-evolving world.\" — Kayla Ambesi

Kayla Ambesi is the Supervisor of Community Schools at Schenectady City School District in New York. With a passion for education and engagement, she oversees six community schools and leads districtwide STEAM Camps, K-12 summer enrichment, and a \"STEM Saturdays\" collaboration with Union College. Kayla is the devoted mother of four children and holds a Bachelor's degree in Social Work from the esteemed College of Saint Rose.

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Ultimate Cup Stack (Team Building) Game

Ultimate Cup Stack (Team Building) Game

Ultimate Cup Stack (Team Building) Game

Overview