Re: Edequity Digest V1 #141

PLearner (PLearner@aol.com)
Fri, 17 Apr 1998 17:06:41 -0400


I have been out of contact with much of the Title IX and PE discussion (my
life's "work") and regret late interest and involvement. Sorry Tim et al-
we've been on the road and writing!

Briefly- some strategies: TRICKS TOWARDS TITLE IX

#1- Define captaincy and leadership. It is a good experience for everyone-
share the opportunity and change captains OFTEN. Classes frequently have 2
captains for the "season." Change many jobs (like cooperative learning roles)
often...so no one gets too bonded or judgmental.

#2- Use different techniques to select captains (random through to voting).

#3- Select 4 teams and captains- have two play together some days versus the
other two, then next week...mix up the the duets. You'll always be with your
mini-team and mates and playing with your "ole opposition!"

#4- Play kickball with 3 teams: outfielders, infielders and kickers. The score
is then (for example) 3-4-1...THREE is less dualistic (right-wrong, win-lose,
male-female) than 2 teams! PLUS, 2 of the teams have to work together for some
part of an inning! This is a favorite!

#5- Have captains select their teams IN PRIVATE as part of a homework or
recess assignment- like a professional draft. They get the list and THEY make
the teams.
PLEASE don't waste class time (instructional quality PE is hard enough to
assure) with this public divisiveness. It's unprofessional, humilating for
many and not the kind of affirmation we want for our skilled youth. I really
mean this!

#6- Have the goal be fair and fun teams (translate: skilled and friends). Have
captains pick fair and fun teams THEN...give them each others teams sometimes-
or maybe at the flip of a coin...they are motivated to create better blends
and spread friends and athletes around.

Games that are motivating and challenging do require some infusion of skills.
Use kickball for 20-24 of your students as a chance to pull away a few for
skill instruction (kicking, base running etc.) Youth need to play on their
own...if you are umpiring or refereeing- YOU'RE NOT TEACHING!

Okay- that's a quick piece of feedback. I used to do entire workshops on how
to change the games we play (see Don Morris in literature) so that they were
equitable and energizing! Your physical educators "should" know these
strategies and be providing models for you all!

Phyllis Lerner
plearner@aol.com


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