Today was the first day of school. One of the things I like to work on with my students as we begin PE class is finding partners quickly. I also like to mix movement in with learning the rules. This game helped give us some movement today, practice staying in our own space, and practice finding a partner quickly.
Begin by having your class spread out onto your gym space. I talk to them about staying in their own “bubble” and not interfering with anyone else. Play music and have them walk around staying in their space. When the music stops, they freeze toe-to-toe with the closest person. Shake hands with that person while saying “my name is ______ and I like to _________”. The partner then responds with their name and something they like to do. Start the music again and repeat. As partners are found, I teach them to come to the middle if they do not have a partner. As they arrive in the middle, partners can easily be found. I also work with them on inviting someone in to their partnership if there is an odd number and someone left out.
Some things I watch for and comment on as we play:
How are they moving? Some of my students will walk like they are in the hallway with arms folded, slow walk. This is PE! You move your arms in here! By the end they are really moving and laughing.
Are they partnering with only girls-to-girls and boys-to-boys? You can mix things up by requiring students to find a partner with the same color shirt, same height, etc.
Are the following the established guidelines? If I have told them to walk, they must walk and not run.
Are they staying in their own space? Running into walls or onto the stage steps is not acceptable. Arm in arm with another person is not acceptable.
It is a great time to establish some boundaries while having fun and mixing with their new classmates.
Once they learn how to find a partner quickly, dividing them throughout the year becomes easier. Next week we will practice in a similar fashion, but vary the number in the group.