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The rationale of game sense is to let students be a part of their learning, by creating meaning and
other factors such as problem-solving. Game sense is important in teaching as it brings something
different to what students already know, this makes it interesting. It is important as the game can be
changed in creating something new for all students. Teaching game sense at first can be hard as
students can get confused, as they mix it up with the original origin of the game. They can also be
confused as it is their first time learning and playing that activity. This is where inquiry-based learning
comes to allow students to ask, discuss and reflect on what they can change to create a better game.
Therefore, even though it can first be a struggle, when students understand game sense it creates
benefits for them including motivation and cognitive learning (Pill, 2016, p292).
The strengths of teaching game sense to my students are so that they can developed knowledge,
skills and understanding from the key learning aspects of the K-6 Personal Development, Health and
Physical Education (PDHPE) syllabus. Please read the foundation statements on page 14 for Stage 1.
Link: http://k6.boardofstudies.nsw.edu.au/wps/wcm/connect/330e5ccb-782a-432b-8ce5122a8c42967e/k6_pdhpe_syl.pdf?MOD=AJPERES
The purpose of using game sense is to allow students to achieve the outcomes and indicators of the
PDHPE syllabus to ensure that they understand that level of Stage 1. Game sense contributes to
developing the Stage 1 outcomes and indicators, as well as problem-solving outcomes and indicators.
By using game sense activities, it encourages students to be involved in their learning.
Reference List:
Board of Studies, NSW. (2007). Personal development, health and
physical education K-6: Syllabus. Sydney, Australia: Author.
Pill, S. (2016). An appreciative inquiry exploring game sense teaching
in physical education. Sport, Education and Society, 21(2), 279297.
Russell-Bowie, D. (2015). MMADD about the arts: An introduction to
primary arts education (4th ed.). Frenchs Forest, Australia: Pearson
Australia.
Silverman, S. (2011). Teaching for Student Learning in Physical
Education. Journal Of Physical Education, Recreation & Dance, 82(6),
29-34.