Carpet Square Challenge

Today we brought the carpet square samples we scored from Schoolhouse Supplies, and used them to help define the space for the youngest group at Southwest Charter School. As usual, students were challenged to listen to directions and simple explanations and move safely “on” equipment [the shag] while exploring a variety of held stances and balances. It’s great to be able to give Kindergarten-age children an anchor to work off of when working to reinforce right from left, and inviting them to move along different planes, with high and low. One drill that really got them going, called Around The World, involves powering out right and left low snap-kicks in the following order: R-front R-side R-back, then L-back L-side L-front.

We ended with a rousing game of TROLL, a favorite among students! A short “runway” of squares acted as path for giggling students, who individually ran, ducked, and weaved their way past Wally (who, as attacking troll, slowly swung pads about in predictable patterns). Those tagged by the troll act on the honor system to complete their requisite jumping jacks.

The older groups were presented with an activity that allowed them to draw on and develop leadership skills by experiencing different “back-to-back” roles through a variety of physical activities. Students first shared ideas on what makes for effective teaching, and actions and/or reactions that can potentially get in the way of learning.

Next, classes were split into two groups. Wally and I each took a group, and shared with students a challenging “drill” they were expected to learn, and then turn around and teach to a partner from the other group! Drills included the above-mentioned Around The World, Two-Step, and for the oldest group, Kick-Combination Number Four.

While light wisps of smoke rose through the air at times, all students demonstrated remarkable patience, stick-with-it-ness, and patience for one another’s learning process (which, according to our teacher is one of the most desirable traits in an instructor’s tool-belt). The SWCS kids do especially well with cooperative learning ventures; it is a pleasure watching them storm through sticky group challenges with such style and finesse.