Game sense is a student-centered approach to teaching physical education based on the idea that games share common principles. It divides games into four categories - invasion, court/net, target, and striking/fielding - based on shared principles within each category. The game sense approach suggests teaching students about these principles will provide them with the technical and tactical skills to perform various games successfully. Research has found this approach improves student learning outcomes and enjoyment compared to traditional teaching methods.

1. GAME SENSE

2. WHAT IS GAME SENSE?
Game sense is a student-centered
approach to teaching physical
education.
Game sense is based
on the idea that
various games share
the same principles.
(Light, 2006; Mitchell, 1996)

3. GAME SENSE
Based on these shared principles, Game sense divides
games into 4 categories:
1. Invasion Games: such as soccer and rugby
2. Court and Net Games: such as volleyball and tennis
3. Target Games: such as golf and archery
4. Striking and Fielding Games: such as softball and
cricket
Each category has games that share the same
principles. For instance, target games are those which
require an individual to aim and hit a target.
(Light, 2006; Mitchell, 1996)

4. GAME SENSE AS A
TEACHING APPROACH
The game sense approach
suggests that teaching children
about the principles will provide
them with the necessary
technical and tactical skills to
successful perform various
games.
For instance, if a child is able to
understand the basic principles
behind aiming and hitting an
object in a target game, then
the child will be able to play a
variety of similar target games.
(Mandigo, Butler & Hopper, 2007; Mitchell, 1996)

5. GAME SENSE AS A
TEACHING APPROACH
This teaching method is designed to improve students’ game
performance, cognitive reactions and skill executions “…in a
positive and highly motivational setting”. For instance, according
to the six step model of Game Sense, students can:
1. Develop and understanding of the game
2. Develop an appreciation for the game
3. Develop tactical awareness
4. Develop decision-making skills
5. Properly execute skills
6. Apply steps 1 through 5 in a complete game
(Mandigo, Butler & Hopper, 2007)

6. GAME SENSE AS A
TEACHING APPROACH
According to research reviewd by Mandigo,
Butler, & Hoper (2007), a game sense approach
to teaching physical education improves
student learning outcomes, increases students’
understanding of tactical knowledge, and
increases enjoyment compared to traditional
approaches.
(Mandigo, Butler, & Hoper, 2007)

7. References
Light, R. (2006). Game sense: Innovation or just good
coaching? Journal of Physical Education New Zealand,
39(1), 8-19,3. Retrieved from http://www.proquest.com
Mandigo, J., Butler, J., & Hopper, T. (2007). What is teaching
games for understanding? A Canadian perspective.
Physical & Health Education Journal, 73(2), 14-20. Retrieved
from http://www.proquest.com
Mitchell, S. A. (1996). Improving invasion game
performance. Journal of Physical Education, Recreation &
Dance, 67(2), 30-32. doi: 10.1080/07303084.1996.10607197