Thinking Skills at Work in PE

I place a lot of value on the thinking process in PE and, through the use of questions, I challenge my students to think deeply about skill development in our practice sessions in class. In yesterday's grade 3 striking and fielding lesson, we were focusing on striking for power and striking for consistency. I wanted the students to not only understand the difference between the two, but to evaluate how consistent they are in striking a ball. This required them to think their way through the process of striking and to have discussions before, during, and after the practice session that we had. Many of the kids showed a solid understanding of hitting for consistency and hitting for power, but a handful of students in particular really did an excellent job in this activity.

 I think that when students authentically demonstrate either learner profile attributes or PYP attitudes it is essential to recognize this as soon as possible as it not only provides important feedback but definitely serves as a motivational tool. It has worked well for me in the past and I do it on a regular basis in my PE classes. I will include a photo of the student in action and write up an explanation as to why they are being recognized and post it on my PE display board in the PYP hallway of our school. As you can imagine, the students love being recognized and their efforts can be seen by parents, teachers, and other students walking past the board. 

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