3-5 PE Lesson Ideas

Mrs. Thomas, while I understand your point, I do think there is value in it from the standpoint that it does send a message that simple conflicts should remain that; simple. It also sends the message that these disputes are not a big deal and should not be treated as such. I had a professor tell me, "Don't kill a fly with a cannon". From a time on task standpoint, it provides a quick resolution and students get back to the activity. Obviously, more serious disputes would require a more complex approach. But I think this lessons focus is to use it for the simple ones that come up.

I have conflicting feelings about the authenticity of this lesson. While it’s definitely age appropriate, it’s not a valid way of resolving disputes in the real world. Students are learning a quick, light-hearted, alternative method to resolve common areas of disagreements in P.E. but I don’t see the value of the lesson outside of this controlled setting. Students are not communicating verbally, they’re not using high order thinking skills, or good citizenship techniques to resolve their problems.

Great idea. I think this could be used with younger ones as well. Thanks for sharing.

this idea worked very well with my students.

I use Rock Paper Scissors all the time with my elementary students. They know that's their quick and friendly way to solve issues like those. Great idea! For those who haven't tried it, it works! It also takes a load off your back because they don't have to come to you with small issues like arriving at the same spot, who gets to be the line leader, who gets the red ball instead of the green, etc.