Game Sense

Parents guide to approaches used in Physical Education

What is Game Sense?

Game sense is a strategy that allows

students to gain a better
understanding of a sport or game. It
helps students develop fundamental
movement skills through small
activities (Curry & Light, 2006; Light
2013).
 How is Game Sense different to other
teaching approaches?
This approach focusses on playing the
game through fun and interactive
activities. This was neglected in the past
as there was a emphasis on explicit
teaching of a skill or technique (Light,
2006).
It is student centered. This means there
is an interaction between players and
direct instruction from the teacher is
very minimal (Light, 2013; Curry & Light,
2006). Therefore, your students thoughts
and abilities are valued!
 Why use Game Sense approach in PE
lessons?

The approach supports constructivist views on

teaching and learning (Light, 2013). This means that
students are actively participating in lessons and
constructing their own learning.
It acknowledges students diverse abilities which
promotes inclusion. For example, implementing
modified rules in a sport, such as basketball, to ensure
all students have a go.
It supports collaboration, promotes enjoyment and a
quality learning environment for your child!
Why use Game Sense approach in PE
lessons?

This approach involves activities that help address

the games and sport strand from the PDHPE syllabus.
Hence, the approach will allow students to develop
various skills and knowledge about physical
activities.
It also helps students develop communicating,
problem solving, decision making, interacting and
moving skills; which are all promoted in the syllabus
(BOS NSW, 2012). Therefore, students are able to
grow physically, socially, mentally and emotionally.
 Modifying
games
before
Fun and
teaching
creative
Target specific skill
games that
games
are
e.g. mini
influenced
golf
by students
ideas

Adjusting
Game Sense game rules
Net/wall can be easily or
games implemented equipment
e.g. Tennis in PE lessons to make it
through easy or
challenging

Games with
Invasion smaller
games e.g. teams; to
Oz tag promote
inclusion
Striking
games such
as Cricket
References

Board of Studies, NSW (BOS NSW). (2007). Personal Development, Health and Physical
Education K-6 Syllabus. Sydney: Board of Studies. Retrieved from
http://k6.boardofstudies.nsw.edu.au/wps/portal/go/personaldevelopmenthealthandp
hysical educationpdhpe
Curry, C., & Light, R. (2006). Addressing the NSW Quality Teaching Framework in physical
education: Is Game Sense the Answer? In Proceedings for the Asia Pacific Conference on
Teaching Sport and Physical Education for Understanding, 14-15 December (pp.7-19).
University of Sydney.
Light, R. (2006). Game Sense: Innovation or just good coaching? Journal of Physical
Education New Zealand, 39(1), 8-19,3.
Light, R. (2013). Game Sense for Physical Education and Sport Coaching. In R.
Light, Game sense pedagogy for performance, participation and enjoyment (pp. 37-47).
London: Routledge. Retrieved from
http://ebookcentral.proquest.com/lib/uwsau/reader.action?ppg=54&docID=981715&tm
=1505575213701