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Name of Activity: Sliding Pennies
Purpose of Activity: practice sliding at a low level
Activity cues: step-close, stay sideways, weight on balls of feet
Prerequisites: Prior instruction on sliding. Understand concepts of general space and self space.
Suggested Grade Level: K-2
Materials Needed: several dollars worth of pennies, one polyspot for each child to use as a “home base,” (optional) small container for each student
Description of Idea Sliding Pennies is a game that challenges student to continue practicing sliding at a low level, appropriate for a variety of sports and activities. Polyspots are spread out on both sidelines. Pennies are spread out all over the middle of the gym floor. Students begin the activity with one foot on a polyspot (their designated "home base"), ready to begin sliding. On the "go" signal, students begin sliding at a low level, pick up one penny, and return to their home base. The penny is placed in a small container next to their home base. As soon as they put the penny in the container they slide over to another penny, repeating the actions until all pennies have been plucked from the gym floor. When all pennies have been picked up, students count their pennies. There should be no focus on winning, only on proper technique. Children can challenge themselves to pick up a certain number of pennies, or beat their previous score.
Variations: * Place polyspots in a line down the center of the floor -- running north to south. * Spread pennies throughout the activity area. * Use beanbags or other small equipment instead of pennies.
Assessment Ideas: Use a rubric focusing on given cues to assess sliding technique.
Adaptations for Students with Disabilities: Instead of using pennies, use larger objects that are easier to grasp.
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