Taking Ownership of Learning in PHE 9

Following the Sport Education Model, the Grade 9s took ownership over their Physical & Health Education classes this term and created a student-led basketball tournament. As well as being the players, students were responsible for all other facets of the experience—they were the coaches, the tournament directors, the refs, the scouts, etc. The idea is that it’s a completely student-led experience and teachers are there to assist only when necessary. This allows the students to collaborate, troubleshoot and problem-solve, creating opportunities for leadership and character development. As this is a multi-week unit, students have the opportunity to reflect, and make a plan on how to approach problems should they happen again. 

The assessment itself is evaluated within the IB Middle Years Programme. Students are assessed on their plan (Criterion B), and their reflection (Criterion D) at the end of the tournament. 

This unit is an excellent opportunity for students to practice communication skills and flexibility. For example, as a player, students need to be understanding and empathetic with organizers that may be doing their job for the very first time. It can be very challenging to referee your classmates, especially in a competitive moment. Each class we debrief, and students are asked to take a step back from their role and empathize with the experience of others. 

Finally, this unit also fosters resilience. On the first day of the tournament, in a typical fashion, students often arrive prepared to receive instructions from teachers. However, it is the students who are ‘in charge’ today. Slowly and surely they begin to follow their plans, and the tournament comes alive. 

Here is a video created by the student communications team, giving a glimpse of the experience.