What is balance? How do we use it? When I asked students these questions, the following chart was created. Needless to say, I was pleasantly surprised by their thoughts and connections. I think they were also surprised by the many activities that require balance. But, as with any concept, we may be able to define it and give examples, but can we always apply it? Students were asked "Why are we learning about balance?" The most frequent answer was "So we can stay active and be STRONG"! I love that they are making the connection that everything we do has a purpose and that purpose is to BE STRONG IN EVERY WAY! Check out this website for an informative description of balance and it's importance for efficient fundamental movement. www.balanceability.com/what-is-balanceability/why-is-balance-so-important Also on the list, students connected what they are learning about nutrition. Often I wonder if students are truly connecting all that we are learning in the gym to what we are learning during our wellness time. This poster proves they are! :) I use the analogy that our bodies are like a car. We need to fuel and maintain it appropriately if we want it to efficiently get us to where we need to go. Students are learning to identify foods in each food group, how to read food labels, and what foods would be best for a balanced meal. We have also identified various foods as Go, Slow, and Woah! In the gym, this week, students had the opportunity to explore and create various games and obstacle courses to challenge their balance through the use of hoops, cones, hurdles, mats, balance beams and boards, as well as scooters. The following pictures are just a little glimpse into our week of creativity, challenge, and teamwork that will hopefully inspire them to continue to find FUN and SUCCESS in movement!
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Each day I am amazed at the progress students are making not just in their physical abilities but more importantly, in my opinion, their CONFIDENCE IN MOVEMENT! Children are taking risks, trying new skills, and even accepting failure when first, second, and even seventh attempts fail. By allowing children to explore movement without judgement, they are more apt to try. Just as the following image states, "kids simply have fun figuring out how their bodies work and realize on their own the best ways to achieve physical goals." If I had a dime for every time a student comes to me and says "Mrs. Torrance watch this..." I wish I could capture it all. These videos are just a snapshot of demonstrating confidence in movement and determination to master a task. |
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