Strategy 2: Physicalizing and Repetition

Strategy 2: Physicalizing and Repetition

As a former college athlete at a Division I University and now a decorated softball coach, I understand the importance of constant physical repetition of a new drill. I want my players to continuously practice forehands, backhands, wrist flips, tee work, etc in order to apply them to the game. This idea should be presented the same way within a classroom. The constant use of the vocabulary words within the context or during activities can help students retain information longer and with a purpose. There are many "physical" games you can play with students. For our Shakespeare Unit, we used a game called "Swords and Shields", but you can adapt it for many other content areas. Here is another game that you may or may not have played in your younger years, but the students love it and learn at the same time. Shoes are optional.

⇒Drama Games to incorporate Vocabulary

Each student is given a list of 2-3 different words and their definitions. (Students will previously have reviewed and studied these words from the beginning of the unit). Partners place their hands on one another's shoulders and try to "step on" their partners feet. While doing this activity, Partner A will tell Partner B their vocabulary word, in which Partner B must think of the definition from the class list or their paraphrased definition. You could also have Partner A recite their word to their partner and they need to repeat it back. They do this while trying to avoid their partner stepping on their feet. Give them about 2 minutes and have them find a new partner. I would do this about 3 times to make sure students are hearing the different vocabulary words.

At the end of the game, have students write a short reflection piece about the words they had to recite, the words they had, which words they needed to work on, and which words they knew. This small yet powerful activity can touch on a variety of students needs and types of learning styles. Physicalizing can help get the blood moving and reading for learning, while also relieving stress through the multiple benefits of playing the game. Vocabulary would not necessarily be thought of when you're playing a game used to enhance foot work skills, however, the constant movement and talking with a variety of partners helps support an overall classroom atmosphere, rather than just vocabulary development.