Note for teachers using this lesson plan
Before this lesson, ensure the playground or an open field is safe, clear of obstacles, and provides enough space for children to run freely without bumping into each other. The central idea is for pupils to enjoy active movement while following simple instructions and participating in a group game. Observe pupils closely to ensure safe running and encourage everyone to join in the singing and actions.
Class: Pre-School Level 3
Term: Third Term
Week: 1
Age: 4 years
Duration: 30 minutes
Subject: Physical & Health Education
Curriculum Theme: Physical and Health Education
Previous Lesson:
Topic: THERE IS FIRE ON THE MOUNTAIN
Subject Matter: THERE IS FIRE ON THE MOUNTAIN.
Specific Objectives
By the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to:
Cognitive Domain
- Recall the lyrics of the “There Is Fire on the Mountain” song.
- Understand and respond to the “run” and “stop” commands within the game.
Affective Domain
- Show enthusiasm and enjoyment during physical activities.
- Listen attentively to the teacher’s instructions.
Psychomotor Domain
- Move their bodies in response to the song’s rhythm.
- Run safely on the field when instructed.
- Stop quickly when the command is given.
Social Domain
- Participate cooperatively in a group game.
- Take turns and share space with peers during the running activity.
Reference Materials
- NAPPS National Unified Teaching Scheme for Pre-School Level 3
- Early Childhood Care and Education resources
Instructional Materials
- Open playground or field
- Teacher’s voice for singing
- Optional: Music player for background music (if available)
Rationale for the Lesson
This lesson is important for 4-year-olds as it promotes gross motor development, coordination, and listening skills through active play. Engaging in the “There Is Fire on the Mountain” game helps children learn to follow rules, respond to commands, and enjoy physical activity in a social setting, which are crucial for their overall physical and social well-being.
Prerequisite/Previous Knowledge
Pupils can move their bodies in various ways (e.g., walk, jump) and follow simple instructions from the teacher.
Lesson Content/Board Summary
THERE IS FIRE ON THE MOUNTAIN
The “There Is Fire on the Mountain” game is a fun and active game for children. It involves singing, running, and listening carefully to instructions to stop.
How to Play the Game
- Everyone stands in a circle or scattered around the play area.
- The teacher or a leader sings the song.
- While singing, everyone runs around the play area.
- When the leader calls out “STOP!” or finishes the song with a specific command, everyone must freeze in place immediately.
- The game continues with singing and running, followed by stopping.
Movement Song: There Is Fire on the Mountain
Tune: Traditional Children’s Game Song
Lyrics:
There is fire on the mountain,
Run, run, run!
There is fire on the mountain,
Run, run, run!
There is fire on the mountain,
Run, run, run!
(Teacher calls out: “STOP!”)
Actions:
- While singing “There is fire on the mountain, run, run, run!”: Pupils run around freely but safely within the designated area.
- When the teacher calls out “STOP!”: Pupils freeze immediately in their current position.
Key Words
- Fire – something that burns and is hot.
- Mountain – a very large hill.
- Run – to move quickly with your legs.
- Stop – to make something not move anymore.
- Game – an activity played for fun.
💡 Teacher Guide for Using This Board Summary
How to teach the content: Explain the game simply and clearly, focusing on the actions of running and stopping. Emphasize safety before starting the game. Use a clear, loud voice for the song and the “STOP!” command.
What to show or demonstrate: Demonstrate safe running within the play area and how to freeze immediately when “STOP!” is called. Show how to move freely without bumping into others.
How to use the rhyme/song: Lead the singing of “There Is Fire on the Mountain” multiple times. Encourage pupils to sing along and perform the actions (running and stopping) with enthusiasm. Start slowly and gradually increase the pace as pupils become more familiar with the game. Ensure the “STOP!” command is clear and distinct.
What to watch for: Observe if pupils are running safely and not pushing each other. Watch for quick responses to the “STOP!” command. Encourage shy pupils to participate and praise effort and good sportsmanship.
Teaching Methods/Instructional Techniques
- Play-based Learning
- Demonstration
- Guided Practice
- Songs and Rhymes
- Imitation
- Practical Activity
Instructional Procedures
Step 1: Introduction
Time: 3 minutes
Teaching Skill: Engagement/Warm-up
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher greets the pupils and asks them to stand up. “Good morning, children! Are you ready to move our bodies today? Let’s stretch a little bit.” The teacher leads simple warm-up stretches like reaching up, touching toes, and shaking hands and feet.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils greet the teacher and imitate the warm-up stretches.
Learning Point: Pupils prepare their bodies for physical activity.
Step 2: Introducing the Game and Song
Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Explanation/Modelling
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher introduces the game “There Is Fire on the Mountain.” “Today, we are going to play a fun game called ‘There Is Fire on the Mountain.’ It’s a game where we sing and run, and then we freeze! Let me sing the song for you first.” The teacher sings the song once or twice.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen attentively to the teacher singing the song and watch the teacher’s demonstration.
Learning Point: Pupils get familiar with the song and the idea of the game.
Step 3: Demonstrating the Actions and Rules
Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Demonstration/Instruction
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher demonstrates the actions: “When we sing ‘run, run, run,’ we will run around. But when I say ‘STOP!’, everyone must freeze like a statue! No moving! Let me show you.” The teacher demonstrates running a short distance and freezing, emphasizing safety and not bumping into others.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils observe the teacher’s demonstration of running and freezing, understanding the rules.
Learning Point: Pupils understand the actions and safety rules for the game.
Step 4: Guided Practice (Song and Movement)
Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Guided Practice/Encouragement
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher leads the pupils in a guided practice session within the classroom or a small space. “Now, let’s try it together. We will sing, and you can run gently in place or around your chair, and then freeze when I say ‘STOP!'” The teacher sings and gives the command, providing immediate feedback.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils sing along and practise the running and freezing actions in a controlled environment.
Learning Point: Pupils develop confidence in performing the game’s actions.
Step 5: Outdoor Activity: Playing the Game on the Field
Time: 7 minutes
Teaching Skill: Facilitation/Supervision
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher takes the pupils to the playground or open field. “Now we have lots of space! Remember, run safely, look where you are going, and stop quickly when I say ‘STOP!'” The teacher initiates the game, singing the song and calling out “STOP!” at intervals, ensuring all pupils participate and adhere to safety rules.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils run freely and safely on the field while singing, and freeze immediately when the teacher calls “STOP!”
Learning Point: Pupils apply the game rules in a larger space, enhancing gross motor skills and listening.
Step 6: Repetition and Reinforcement
Time: 3 minutes
Teaching Skill: Reinforcement/Praise
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher plays the game a few more times, varying the pace of the song and the timing of the “STOP!” command. The teacher encourages pupils to sing louder and move with more energy, praising good listening and safe play. “You are all doing so well! Let’s play one more time!”
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils continue to participate actively, singing, running, and freezing, enjoying the game.
Learning Point: Pupils reinforce their understanding and enjoyment of the game through repeated practice.
Step 7: Evaluation/Review
Time: 4–5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Questioning/Assessment
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher checks pupils’ understanding through short questions and practical tasks.
- “What is the name of our game today?”
- “What do we do when we sing ‘run, run, run’?”
- “What do we do when the teacher says ‘STOP!’?”
- Ask pupils to demonstrate freezing like a statue.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils respond orally and demonstrate the required skill where appropriate.
Learning Point: Pupils demonstrate understanding of the lesson.
Step 8: Conclusion
Time: 2 minutes
Teaching Skill: Closure/Cool-down
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher gathers the pupils for a cool-down. “Great job everyone! You ran so well and listened carefully. Let’s take a deep breath in and out.” The teacher leads a few gentle stretches and praises pupils for their participation and energy. “You all played wonderfully today!”
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils participate in cool-down stretches and listen to the teacher’s concluding remarks.
Learning Point: Pupils relax after physical activity and feel a sense of accomplishment.
Lesson Keywords
- Fire – something that burns and is hot.
- Mountain – a very large hill.
- Run – to move quickly with your legs.
- Stop – to make something not move anymore.
- Game – an activity played for fun.
Differentiation
- Support: For pupils who are hesitant or struggle with the “stop” command, the teacher can provide a visual cue (e.g., holding up a hand) or pair them with a more confident peer. Start with a slower pace and smaller running area.
- Extension: For pupils who quickly grasp the game, encourage them to lead a verse of the song or suggest different ways to freeze (e.g., like an animal, a tree) while still responding quickly to the “STOP!” command.
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