"Why do I have to do this?" "This is so lame", "I am gross and sweaty," are a few of the famous lines I hear from my small, but very energetic physical education class. I have a mixed group of sixth, seventh, and eighth grade self-contained emotionally disturbed males.
In a technology based world, allowing my students to engage and take ownership of their learning would be an important skill for their learning, self-esteem, and personal growth.
We have designed their very own personal physical education class so they can learn, grow, and be safe. We are stressing the importance of team work, dedication, grit, and overcoming obstacles. These young males are very smart, special students. They would see the benefit of being physically active and all it has to offer their bodies, minds, and spirits.
Incorporating heart rate monitors would give them immediate feedback and be most helpful in their struggle with enjoying physical education class. Once the students wear heart rate monitors in class will be able to see if they are exercising in their target heart zone, how many calories they are burning, and find that perfect spot where their body is performing at its best.
My Project
Having an activity tracker will give instant feedback to my special needs students. This will help motivate them to stay on task and push themselves in healthy ways to improve self-esteem, fitness levels, and perseverance.
Students will be able to see how hard they are working, set goals for themselves, and improve their overall self-confidence.
They will be excited to learn and come to class. The students will be incorporating math skills into this class as well. They will take their data, and chart it every single day for the remainder of the school year. They will then write reflections on their own self improvements and set goals for themselves.
Making learning fun and exciting is something that these students need to continue to make positive choices and see successes in their own personal lives.
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