What Game Sense is and why I am using this approach for teaching

1. Game
Sense

2. What is Game Sense?
Game Sense is an approach to sport that has been modified so that students
can engage with strategic concepts. These strategic concepts are there to
develop opportunities and also enhance student skills and understanding of
the game with the use of tactical. These modifications can be easy and
gradually become harder depending on the students capabilities and abilities
but overall it encourages students to all take part and be involved. Game
sense involves students to enjoy themselves as well as to think,
communicate, be inclusive, be challenged and player-centred but more so
incorporates the many Fundamental Skills (FMS) too.

3. The 12 Fundamental Skills (FMS)
1. Static balance
2. The sprint run
3. The vertical jump
4. The catch
5. The hop
6. The side gallop
7. The skip
8. The overarm throw
9. The leap
10.The kick
11.The two handed strike
12.The dodge

4. Why use Game Sense to teach PE?
Increases motivation - students love to play games!
Allows students to have fun and be active whilst learning
Encourages students to think and tackle challenges
Develops communication and teamwork skills
Gives students control and authority
Develops student independency
Observation allows students to be monitored
Strengths and weaknesses are recognised
Students are indirectly questioned/guided without being told what to do
Students are encouraged with an explanation to build their confidence
Allows students to take part and be involved without leaving anyone out

5. Shane Pill in his article An appreciative inquiry
exploring game sense teaching in physical education
explains how there has been an increase of teachers
adopting Games sense as part of their teaching
approach. I believe this is a great way to help build
students interest as well as their passion for Physical
Education (PE). As Phil argues, taking a Games Sense
approach is more challenging than the traditional way of
teaching but as teachers we rather step out of our
comfort zone just to ensure the entire class is involved,
participating and not feeling left out. Encouraging and
motivating students will only benefit and grow their
passion in relation to PDHPE.

6. Jorge Knijnik and Christina Curry argue that many schools ‘neglect the importance of
physical education’. I believe PDHPE is just as important as Mathematics, English and every
other Key Learning Area’s (KLA) as stated on the New South Wales Education Standards
Authority (NESA). Without PDHPE education, students will never value the true meaning,
importance and benefits behind PDHPE. As teachers we should motivate students about
the beauty of being active. For example, take the students outside regularly to have a fresh
learning experience compared to the traditional indoor classroom learning experiences.
Facilitate and treat students equally regardless of their gender and appearance. Allow
students to have a sense of belonging but moreso have that confidence within themselves.
Just because one student may be fitter than the other, does not mean they are any better.
And finally, respect amongst each other.

7. Reference List
Knijnik, J., & Curry, C. (2014). I know PE is important but I don’t feel
confident teaching it: Australian primary pre-service teachers’
feelings and thoughts about teaching physical education.
International Journal of Sport Studies, 4(3), 289-296.
Pill, S. (2016). An appreciative inquiry exploring game sense teaching in
physical education. Sport, Education and Society, 21(2), 279-297.