Game Sense - An Approach to teaching PD.H.PE

1. GAME SENSE
AN APPROACH FOR TEACHING PD.H.PE

2. WHAT IS A GAME SENSE APPROACH?
Game sense is a style of coaching that was developed by Rod Thorpe and the
Australian Sports Commission between 1994 and 1998 (Light, 2006).
The idea behind Games Sense coaching is that of learning whilst playing. Instead of
focusing on specific techniques, they are developed through participation within the
broader game format (Light, 2006).
Game sense coaching follows a progression from simple games with multiple
variations that build up towards the full game or sport (Light, 2012).

3. REFLECTION AND QUESTIONING
It can be said that games based training is just a part of good coaching, however Game Sense
is unique in the way it distinctively uses questioning and reflection to foster understanding (light,
2006).
Some questions may include:
•What did we find easy/hard about that game?
•What could we do to better complete that challenge?
•How do you think this game is similar to the full sport?
By questioning and reflecting the Game Sense approach builds a better understanding for
players of any sport.

4. THE CATEGORIES OF GAME SENSE
The Game Sense approach classes sports into 4 different categories (light, 2006).
They are:
•Invasion Games – Basketball, Soccer etc
•Striking Games – Cricket, Tee ball etc
•Net/Wall Games – Tennis, Volleyball etc
•Target Games – Lawn Bowls, Archery etc
Particular skill based games can be developed to cover a range of different sports within one
category, so instead of focusing on a specific sport when teaching, many can be covered in one
lesson.

5. BENEFITS OF USING A GAME SENSE APPROACH
First of all, and most importantly, the game sense approach is far more engaging than a skill
based approach. We find that children’s level of participation is much higher and they also enjoy
the lessons much more.
Children are given the ability to learn for themselves, rather than be told what to do. They
discover the best way to perform a skill and that can be far more rewarding.
The reflection based format allows for the free flowing of ideas and gives the children the ability
to modify the games and consequently take control of their learning.

6. HOW GAME SENSE RELATES TO THE SYLLABUS
• Communicating: COS3.3 - Communicates confidently in a variety of situations.
• Decision Making: DMS3.2 –Makes informed decisions and accepts responsibility for
consequences.
• Interacting: INS3.3 – Acts in ways that enhance the contribution of self and others in a range of
cooperative situations.
• Moving: MOS3.4 – Refines and applies movement skills creatively to a variety of challenging
situations.
• Problem Solving: PSS3.5 – Suggests, considers and selects appropriate alternatives when
resolving problems.

7. REFERENCES
Light.R. (2012). Games Sense: Paedology for Performance , Participation and Enjoyment.
Retrieved from: http://www.eblib.com/
Light, R. (2006). Game Sense: Innovation or just good coaching? Journal of Physical Education
New Zealand, 39, (1), 8-19.
NSW Board of Studies. (2007). Personal Development, Health and Physical Education K-6 Syllabus.
Sydney, Australia.