Lesson 7 - Problem-Solving and Communication
Trust & Communication Skills
•Year 2
•Outdoor Adventurous Activities
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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How can we work together to solve challenges and achieve our goals?
Learning Objectives
- To communicate effectively with a partner and small group to solve problems
- To be able to discuss, interact and plan collaboratively
- To develop listening skills and reflect on successful problem-solving strategies
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate effective communication with partners and small groups
- Students will show they can listen to others and share ideas constructively
- Students will reflect on their problem-solving successes and areas for improvement
Equipment & Resources Required
Store in accessible container, distribute as needed for activities
Alternative: Small balls, soft toys, or fabric squares
Place randomly around area for dishes and domes, keep spares nearby
Alternative: Plastic bottles, markers, or hoops laid flat
Pair hoops approximately 1 metre apart for movement activities
Alternative: Chalk circles, rope circles, or poly spots
Key Vocabulary
Sharing ideas, thoughts and information with others through speaking and listening
Finding ways to overcome challenges or complete tasks
Working together towards a shared goal
A plan or method for achieving something
Thinking about what worked well and what could be improved
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic following of simple instructions
- Experience working with a partner
- Understanding of taking turns
Current Skills
- Active listening in group situations
- Sharing ideas verbally with confidence
- Problem-solving through trial and error
- Basic planning and strategy discussion
Next Steps
- Leading small group discussions
- Evaluating different strategies
- Teaching others problem-solving techniques
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Communication makes teamwork more effective and enjoyable
- Different situations may require different communication methods
- Good listening is just as important as speaking clearly
- Problem-solving often requires trying multiple approaches
- Everyone can contribute valuable ideas to help the team succeed
- Reflection helps us learn from our experiences and improve
- Patience and encouragement help teams work better together
Common Misconceptions
- Thinking that being fastest is more important than working together - emphasise that coordination leads to better results
- Believing that only verbal communication is effective - demonstrate power of non-verbal signals
- Assuming that teams should never disagree - teach that respectful discussion of different ideas is valuable
- Thinking that making mistakes means failure - frame errors as learning opportunities that help teams improve
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Break activities into smaller chunks, provide clear boundaries, use movement breaks, offer specific roles
dyspraxia
- Use larger equipment, reduce complexity of movements, provide extra practice time, offer alternative movement patterns
autism spectrum
- Provide clear structure and routine, use visual schedules, allow preparation time for new activities
visual impairment
- Use bright coloured equipment, provide verbal descriptions of activities, assign sighted partners for guidance
hearing impairment
- Use visual demonstrations, simple hand signals, written instructions if needed, ensure face-to-face communication
physical disability
- Adapt jumping to stepping or seated movements, use larger equipment if needed, focus on achievable challenges
Cross-Curricular Links
English
Verbal communication skills, listening comprehension, vocabulary development
Maths
Counting beanbags and cones, understanding concepts of more/less and half
Science
Understanding forces and movement, cause and effect relationships
PSHE
Working cooperatively, respecting others, building confidence and resilience
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Move around the area to observe all groups, position for maximum visibility during demonstrations
Observation Focus
Watch for effective communication, safe movement techniques, and positive team interactions
Intervention Points
Step in if communication breaks down, safety concerns arise, or students become frustrated
Demonstration Notes
Always demonstrate key techniques clearly, use positive examples from students during activities, model good communication yourself
Verbal Cues
- •'Talk to your team!'
- •'What's your plan?'
- •'How can you help each other?'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 15m x 20m, clear of obstacles and hazards
Surface Check
Ensure surface is safe for jumping and quick direction changes
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check beanbags for tears or loose filling
- •Ensure cones have no sharp edges or cracks
- •Verify hoops are undamaged and appropriate size
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Collisions during fast-paced activities
- •Trips or falls during jumping challenges
- •Equipment-related injuries from damaged items
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear boundaries and safe spacing established
- •Emphasise controlled movement over speed
- •Regular equipment checks and safe storage
- •Immediate stop signal taught and practiced
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position to observe all groups during challenges
- •Monitor for safe technique during jumping activities
- •Watch for signs of frustration that might lead to unsafe behaviour
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid if needed, ensure other students are safe