GAME SENSE

APPROACH
Importance of game sense approach in teaching
primary PE classes
What is a game sense approach?
It is a student centered approach where they learn the tactics and strategies of the
game along with the technique development (Kirk and MacPhail, 2002).
According to the developmental level of the students, the game is started at a
simpler level with lower skills demand and then it is modified into more complicated
form. The modifications are made to rules, playing area or equipment (Kirk and
MacPhail, 2002).
As students expertise develop, the game form is altered to continuously challenge
them in terms of tactical awareness, decision making and technique execution (Kirk
and MacPhail, 2002).

It creates smart & skilled players:
In this approach discussion and interaction between the students and the coach are
used to formulate new game variations that stimulate thinking and intellectual
engagement (Light, 2013).
It helps students try new things, evaluate their decisions and reflect upon them
constructively (Light, 2013).
Advantages of game sense approach
Working off the ball: Through this approach the students will learn not only how to
perform the skills but when, where and why to perform them, so they can respond
effectively to changing physical conditions in a game (Light, 2006).
Creating independent players: It places the students in situations where they have to
take control and make decisions so it empowers them and makes them responsible
for their actions (Butler and Griffin, 2005) .
Some more strengths
Increases player motivation: This approach provides opportunities for enjoyment,
creativity and innovation that leads to positive experiences and higher motivation
(Butler and Griffin, 2005).
Inclusive nature: Through appropriately structured challenges this approach
provides learning experiences to all students irrespective of their abilities (Butler and
Griffin, 2005).
Links to PDHPE syllabus
So through game sense approach students will develop effective communication skills
as they will be communicating their ideas, decision making skills through discussion
and evaluation and problem solving skills (Board of studies, NSW, 2007).
This will also enable an active lifestyle among the students through inclusive learning,
games and sports skills as they play and participate in various activities and also
interpersonal skills through working in groups (Board of studies, NSW, 2007).
It will also enhance their values and attitude by developing a sense of belonging as
through student centered learning all students will feel part of the team (Board of
studies, NSW, 2007).



References
Butler, J. (2005). Teaching games for understanding: Theory, research, and practice. Human Kinetics.
Retrieved from http://books.google.com.au/books?hl=en&lr=&id=3OmCjmk-
MEoC&oi=fnd&pg=PR7&dq=Teaching+games+for+understanding:+Theory,+research+a
nd+practice.&ots=adadpHvdtM&sig=Y5iYwLcKCQqwx8Z09Wsgb2wAlM8#v=onepage&
q=Teaching%20games%20for%20understanding%3A%20Theory%2C%20research%20and
%20practice.&f=false
Kirk, D., & McPhail, A. (2002). Teaching games for understanding and situational learning: Rethinking
the Bunker Thorpe model. Journal of teaching in physical education. 21, 177-192. Retrieved
from http://uobrep.openrepository.com/uobrep/bitstream/10547/233694/1/4226.pdf


References
Light, R. (2012). Game sense: pedagogy for performance, participation and enjoyment. Routledge.
Retrieved from
http://books.google.com.au/books?hl=en&lr=&id=QHzSrnQjBpEC&oi=fnd&pg=PP2&
dq=Game+sense.+Pedagogy+for+performance,+participation+and+enjoyment.+&ots=B
TaS2BmtlW&sig=jLB2gAs2taPLs7QJzjqk2hJD1-
E#v=onepage&q=Game%20sense.%20Pedagogy%20for%20performance%2C%20particip
ation%20and%20enjoyment.&f=false
Light, R. (2006). Coaches experience of game sense: opportunities and challenges. Physical education
and sport pedagogy. 9(2), 115-131. doi:10.1080/1740898042000294949


References
New South Wales Board of studies (2007). Personal development, health and physical
education K-6. Retrieved from
http://k6.boardofstudies.nsw.edu.au/wps/portal/go/personal-development-health-and-
physical-education-pdhpe