Games Sense Approach

Chloe Dreyer 17478146

What is Game Sense?

The games sense approach is a way of teaching that uses games to develop tactical and strategic thinking and understanding (Townsend, 2007).

Rather then explaining the theory of a particular game, then playing it at the end of the lesson, the game sense approach focuses the lesson around the game. Through playing the game, students are able to easily understand the reason for specific skills and rules of the game (Curriculum Support, n.d).

What is game sense?

The game sense approach allows children to develop and understand fundamental movement skills.

Children are able to experience these skills physically and then make sense of these skills through immediate reflection, creating meaning learning for the students (Light, 2006).

Categories of game sense

The game sense approach uses four different categories when developing their games:

• Invasion games: Soccer, football, netball

• Target games: Archery, golf, bowls

• Striking/fielding games: Cricket, baseball, softball

• Net/wall games: Tennis, badminton, squash

Why game sense?

Practical learning is very important for primary school aged children.

Children are able to understand the reason for games and the skills used in these games better when they are physically playing the games then reflecting upon them.

The game sense approach links directly to the syllabus, touching on every one of the five essential skills students should develop in PDHPE.

Strengths of games sense

Each of the five essential skills in the syllabus is developed through the game sense approach: communication, decision-making, interaction, movement and problem solving

Children are able to develop confidence creating increased positive feelings of success and enjoyment

The game sense approach encourages a positive and an inclusive sporting environment by taking on a holistic approach

Physical activity is promoted in a fun and achievable way and not focusing on the winning aspect of the game. This encourages all students to play, whether they are sporty students or not.

Reference List

Curriculum Support. (n.d). Game sense approach to practical lessons in PDHPE. Retrieved from http://www.curriculumsupport.education.nsw.gov.au/secondary/pdhpe/assets/pdf/pa_002.pdf

Light, R. (2006). Game sense: Innovation or just good coaching? Journal of Physical Education New Zealand, 39(1), 8-19,3.

Townsend, G. (2007). Game Sense. Rugby Football Union.