Aim: Participation in an organized game involving object handling, rule-following, good sportsmanship

Age: Primary level

Performance Objectives:

• Throw a ball
• Catch a ball
• Switch roles

Materials:

• Two Nerf balls
• Large open area

Motivation:

Tell students they will be learning a new game that they can play here or on the playground.

Development:

1. On board, list all ball games class can think of.
2. If available, read story about a ball game (i.e. Dulcie Dando, Soccer Star)
3. Discuss book & different ball games with students.
4. Explain they will be learning a new game that will help them develop skills.
5. Divide class in half. First half forms circle around second half.
6. Explain game name is "Monkey in the Middle". Students in the middle are the monkeys. Students in outer circle must throw ball to others in outer circle. If an inner circle student intercepts it, they switch places with the one who threw the ball. Explain no hitting. Begin with just one ball.
7. After they get the hang of it, introduce the second ball.

Special considerations:

Students with walker/wheelchair can join in. Be careful to assure adequate room. Alert those next to student to be cautious. Ditto for person on crutches. Students with S/P (severe & profound disabilities) can have a partner who teams up with student.  Students with cognitive impairment  should be fine with this.

Otherwise, ask student to pick a 2 other partners to play ball with, tossing and catching similarly. If someone drops the ball, they switch places.

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