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Teacher: Dawn Rister who teaches at Dutch Fork Middle School in Irmo, SC. Dawn Rister can be contacted at drister@lex5.k12.sc.us.

Name of Best Practice: Integrating the Nintendo WII in Adaptive Physical Education

Rationale/Purpose of Event: Using the Nintendo WII in our Adaptive Physical Education class has allowed students with disabilities the chance to participate in various sports (Golf, baseball, tennis, and bowling) that they otherwise may not enjoy. This has allowed them to understand the rules of the sport, improved reaction time, and hand eye coordination. The physical therapist also could see the benefits as far as flexibility is concerned.

Suggested Grade Level: 3-5, 6-8, 9-12

Materials Needed: Nintendo WII and TV (We actually use a projector and project it on the wall)

A fellow teacher came to me during our in-service this year and told me how much fun his new gaming system was. I am not a huge fan of video games, but I asked him to bring it and we gave it a try. After trying it out (my shoulder was actually sore), I could see the benefits of using it in our adaptive Physical Education class. The kids love it! There are several sports games that it comes with (e.g. Golf, Bowling, Tennis, Golf, and Boxing). The WII does NOT take the place of the regular activities that we do, but it is a great addition. The students have fun and really enjoy it.

Variations:

My friend that introduced me to the WII came up with a terrific idea to raise money for the system. He organized a WII Bowling Tournament after school. We set up four "Bowling Lanes" and served donated snacks. Students and faculty members paid $10 for two hours of fun. Our adaptive students competed along side the other students and everyone had a blast! We even had a lane set up for faculty members. (How often do adaptive kids get to play with everyone else?!!) We raised enough money to by a second system (someone donated a WII when they heard about the Tournament)and extra paddles. It was a great social event...it even made the TV News and State Paper.

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Monday, January 14, 2013 9:15:42 AM
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