Post #3:
This week our class was focused on invasion games led by Krystal, Eric and Sam. I loved this whole lesson that they taught, and I really enjoyed the fact that it was given a theme to work with, that ended up tying the entire lesson together. The most valuable idea that I took away from this lesson was that of inclusion. I think, in terms of P.E. I often consider games or activities where there is always a winner, be it soccer, basketball, floor hockey, etc, the end of which usually concludes with one team winning. The space invaders game, however, brought forth a new way to conduct activities that include everyone, and therefore give every student, a chance to win. I think that it would be significant to conduct these types of games within our P.E. classes because students can really learn the value of teamwork as well as the usefulness of keeping those around them included in the activities they choose to participate in. I specifically liked this because the students who may be less physical and those who may be more physical, and even those who are in between, can all be involved in the game, and therefore the stronger players must align themselves with those who they may look don upon in a game where they compete instead. This is such an important skill for students to acquire because they must learn how to work with whomever they may come in contact with, whether it is in P.E. or their classroom, or later in life when they have co-workers.
For me, I would really like to use this lesson within the classroom during my practicum, not only because I think the students would really enjoy the game, but because there is so much merit to involving students in a game which is fun and inclusive at the same time, and I think the class I am currently in would benefit greatly from this lesson.
Week 5: Group B: Comment
Response to Tara‘s post
I totally agree with Tara! This invasion game was such a great example of an activity that is inclusive and the importance of winning is decreased. The game allowed us to be competitive, but also work together. It was a really dynamic game involving many strategies and skills. I think, like Tara said, it would be a great game to play with classes to allow them to learn the strategies involved in invasion games, like soccer or basketball, without the pressure of being on the winning-team. It also avoids the other big issue with playing those sports in a more formal way in P.E., which is that so many kids end up sitting on the side lines or just not getting to participate in the game. Inclusivity is vital for children to learn to love physical activity and it should be at the forefront of our minds as we teach P.E. with our classes. I think this game showed us a lot of ways that we can achieve this, for example, getting the kids to work in small groups or pairs to practice first and then getting the game going with the full class involved.
Another important condition for including all learners is the idea that activities must have modifications. There needs to be options for those who are still learning these skills and need practice, as well as those who need a challenge. I think that’s another reason why allowing us to practice the skills in small groups first is important: it levels the playing field somewhat. Also, I think the more fun the game is, the more inclusive it will be. If the game is engaging and kids feel like they are able to use their skills and achieve competency or success, they will enjoy it and want to play it, especially if there is a balance between working together and being competitive. That way, we can teach our students how to work together and also give them the experiences that come with competition.
Week 5- Response Reflection-Group B
Thank you for sharing your thoughts about this week’s invasion game group teach! I too had the misconception that games in physical education needed to be competitive sports. The Space Invaders game was a creative way join the group and teach students the importance of working together while acquiring physical literacy. It was rather refreshing to participate in a game that the end result was bringing the group together as opposed to being pinned against one another. The game is so well thought out with how it strategically reverses the negative feelings associated with the “weaker” individual or team because they then join the stronger players’ team. This technique will allow the stronger players to display their proper leadership skills that are required for physical literacy and aide the development of the weaker players.
This lesson inspired me to step out of the box because teaching fundamental skills can still be fun for the children. Focusing on a theme for the entire lesson created excitement and ultimately more engagement. If the children are engaged then they will be more eager and determined to work harder in the activity. I need to tailor my lesson plans to have a student-centred dynamic that is adaptive based on the individual children in my class. Having this idea of formulating a lesson by theme is another great way to include all learners because themes can be based on personal interests of the students. Establishing a precedence that more practice means more success and delegating roles for each member of a team or other ways for inclusivity. There does not need to be a focus on competiveness in order to successfully run a physical education program. Sam, Krystal and Eric’s lesson led me to rethink the importance and purpose of games. Through games for understanding, we as educators can teach fundamental skills, encourage teamwork and social awareness, while still being fun for children.