PE central Idea: We use and create space to play invasion games
Lines of Inquiry: - what is space?, what is invasion? , what is attacking and defending?, How is space used in attacking and defending?
PYP UoI Integration: Recycling (personal choices)
In this unit we have inquired with our grade 1 class what invasion is and what role space has when we play such games. I teach concept based and have linked this unit with the UoI, Sharing the Planet with a focus on recycling. I linked by creating a recycling-invasion game (see video below)
To Frame the unit we (myself and my students) first looked at space and we came up with all kinds of words that have something to do with space. I use large papers, draw clouds and write words with question marks to make sure I do not guide them but leave room for their interpretation on the topic. To assess our learning outcomes, I developed, on top of all the formative assessment like specific observation and class reflection, a portfolio piece where students can show their understanding on some of the 5 elements of the PYP (knowledge, skill, understanding, attitude and action)
Now, knowing the outcome and frame work of our unit, I chose my activities that could help students to gain knowledge, understanding and help them inquire into the role of space within invasion games. This unit lasted for 4 weeks so 8 lessons of about 40 minute workout time.
Tag games like tails and stuck in the mud helped the students to understand their use of space (attacking and defending both individually and as a team) within a well know setting. I try not to prompt the students too much before the activity but use reflection to look back. Through specific observation and videoing, using an iPad to show their actions/choices during a short reflection after a game, I can see student understanding and it helps them to make connections. I also use a game called everybody nobody, where students try to take others out by hitting their legs with a ball. The key point is that they are not allowed to move if they hold a bal. When hit, they sit and wait for a ball to roll by. Picking it up gets them back in the game. Play with plenty of balls so students do not wait too long to get back in the game.
(See rough unit plan below)
Further in week 1 we played capture the flag to further inquire into the use of space. This game works really well as it has team sides, safe and risky areas, attacking and defending options. In my classes I have adopted a general PE strategy, which is: Plan-Play-Reflect. It has become a student initiated action now that all students understand it s strategising before a game is standard practice. I used to prompt them but now I do not anymore and use it during reflection time to see whether it had an affect (planning or not planning).
This game is easy to modify and it is easy to find evidence of learning.
During this week we also start with moving the ball to areas in pairs, throwing and catching. I use this as warm-up, creating fun games with it rather than approach it as a drill. The key is, who can move, who can not, just like in the earlier mentioned warm-up game.
In week 2 we played small sided games, 2v2, with scoring opportunities in big round low baskets to further develop their movement into space. This is challenging but again through videoing them playing, they quickly recognise and understand the way we use and create space in invasion games. I feel strongly about video feedback as many students are visually oriented. By using it I cater for all types of learning styles.
In week 3 we played a game called floorball (unihockey), again 2v2 and in this game it is much harder for the students to use and create the space due to the fact that the skills are more difficult and everybody can move all the time. Again, the us of iPads helps to see the difference in moving. I do not spend a lot of time looking at the video's and because the unit is well planned and framed, there is also no need for it.
This game linked all aspects of our PE unit and it linked well with the Unit of Inquiry.
Thank you for reading, leave a comment if you have ideas or thoughts about this unit.
Joost Langendonck