Each year during our throwing and catching unit, along with discussing proper fundamentals we also explore strategies to improve accuracy and power. “How can you improve the likelihood of throwing to your partner’s chest?” “How does your technique change to throw at a faraway target?” A game I like to play with First-Third Grade students is called AROUND THE WORLD. Before playing we gather in information formation to discuss different countries around the world. Often there is discussion about continents, languages, cultures, and even ethnic foods. Students also share about countries they’ve visited.

Then I explain how to play AROUND THE WORLD.

Setup:

  • Set up at least 20 receptacles (countries) around the gym. I use laundry baskets, but I encourage you to use a variety of receptacles.
  • Give each student the option to throw a beanbag or fleece ball.
  • Place a poly spot in front of each country. Each spot is set at a different distance, some close and some further away. This allows students to work on softer and more powerful throws.

How to play:

  • Each student reports to a country.
  • Before throwing students name a country they are visiting. They have up to three attempts to throw their ball into the basket. If it goes in, they move clockwise to the next country. Again, they name a second country before throwing.
  • Students attempt to work their way around the world. If they succeed before time runs out, students go around again. However, this time, they take one giant step back behind each poly spot before throwing.
  • More than one student can throw at the same basket at a time.
  • Take time to process after the game.
    • Which countries did you visit?
    • How were your throws different when throwing to close and far baskets?
    • Did you play with integrity?
    • Give me an example of perseverance.

I like playing AROUND THE WORLD for a variety of reasons. It’s another challenging throwing game. Students can work at their own pace. They can enhance and share their knowledge of world geography. And finally, AROUND THE WORLD is FUN!

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Published by jcahill

I have been teaching physical education for 27 years. I began my career teaching in Washington, DC before moving to Atlanta, Georgia to teach at Trinity School. I have a passion for keeping kids healthy and moving during each PE lesson, and throughout their lives. I’m a firm believer that recess is a right and NOT a privilege. Please check out and join my Facebook group called Keeping Kids in Motion. I am happily married and have three beautiful children who are constantly KEEPING ME IN MOTION!

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