9th, 10th Grades  Project 1 week

Game On: The World of Racket Sports

Ben C
9-12.CT.7
CDA.3b.6
5.2. L1
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
+ 1 more
1-pager

Purpose

The purpose of this project is to immerse students in the dynamic world of racquet sports by exploring ping-pong, pickleball, and tennis through hands-on activities and community partnerships. Students will develop a deeper understanding of the physical and mental challenges inherent in each sport while honing critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Through self-directed learning and reflection, students will build self-knowledge and academic mindset, culminating in a showcase that highlights their mastery and enthusiasm for these sports.

Learning goals

Students will develop a comprehensive understanding of the rules, strategies, and physical and mental challenges of ping-pong, pickleball, and tennis. They will enhance their critical thinking and problem-solving skills by analyzing and comparing these sports, while fostering self-directed learning through reflection and peer feedback. Students will build academic mindsets by establishing a sense of identity and belonging within the sports community, culminating in a showcase where they demonstrate their expertise and guide visitors in hands-on experiences.
Standards
  • [New York] 9-12.CT.7 - Design or remix a program that utilizes a data structure to maintain changes to related pieces of data.
  • [New York] CDA.3b.6 - create an ongoing portfolio that demonstrates the competencies and creative processes delineated in the preceding key ideas.
  • [New York] 5.2. L1 - Selects and participates in physical activities that provide an appropriate level of challenge.
Competencies
  • Self Directed Learning - Students use teacher and peer feedback and self-reflection to monitor and direct their own learning while building self knowledge both in and out of the classroom.
  • Academic Mindset - Students establish a sense of place, identity, and belonging to increase self-efficacy while engaging in critical reflection and action.
  • Critical Thinking & Problem Solving - Students consider a variety of innovative approaches to address and understand complex questions that are authentic and important to their communities.

Products

Throughout the week, students will develop a comprehensive portfolio that includes a reflection journal documenting their personal growth and understanding of each sport, as well as video clips of their skills and strategies in action. By the end of the project, students will create a visual infographic comparing the physical and mental demands of ping-pong, pickleball, and tennis, which will be displayed during the 'Game On! Showcase.' Additionally, students will produce a collaborative presentation that outlines the rules and strategies of each sport, to be shared with the community during the exhibition matches.

Launch

Kick off the project with a dynamic 'Skills and Drills Day' where students rotate through interactive stations focused on essential skills for pickleball and ping pong. At each station, peer coaches guide and support their classmates in mastering fundamental techniques and strategies. This collaborative environment sets the stage for the week, fostering teamwork and enthusiasm while allowing students to immediately engage with the physical and mental challenges of these sports.

Exhibition

Students will organize a 'Game On! Showcase' where they act as sport ambassadors, guiding visitors through the rules and strategies of ping-pong, pickleball, and tennis. They will offer live demonstrations of each sport, explaining the physical and mental challenges involved, and providing hands-on opportunities for guests to try out the sports themselves. This event will serve as a platform for students to demonstrate their understanding and skills development while engaging the community in interactive learning experiences.