Lesson 3 - Creative Problem Solving
Trust & Team Navigation
•Year 6
•Outdoor Adventurous Activities
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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How can creative thinking and effective teamwork help us overcome seemingly impossible challenges?
Learning Objectives
- To think creatively to find solutions to complex physical challenges
- To work collaboratively in small groups to solve problems effectively
- To develop self-motivation and confidence in competitive situations
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate creative thinking when faced with physical challenges
- Students will show effective teamwork and communication skills
- Students will display resilience and self-motivation throughout activities
Equipment & Resources Required
One per group with string attached
Alternative: Large PE hoops, rope circles
4-6 pieces tied to each hoop at equal intervals
Alternative: Elastic bands, resistance bands
One per group for spider web challenge
Alternative: Bean bags, small soft balls
Targets for spider web challenge
Alternative: Upturned buckets, large containers
Various colours for different challenges
Alternative: Paper plates, chalk circles
2 per group for swamp crossing
Alternative: Carpet tiles, foam pads
Representing dynamite in pirate game
Alternative: Small balls, tokens
Pirate ammunition - safe throwing balls
Alternative: Soft foam balls, tennis balls
Key Vocabulary
A plan of action designed to achieve a goal or solve a problem
Working together effectively to achieve a common goal
The ability to recover from setbacks and keep trying when facing difficulties
Creating new and original solutions to problems
Acting at the same time and speed as others in the group
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic teamwork and cooperation skills
- Following simple instructions and rules
- Experience with problem-solving activities
Current Skills
- Creative thinking under pressure
- Advanced team communication and leadership
- Strategic planning and adaptation
Next Steps
- Leading complex multi-group challenges
- Developing coaching and mentoring skills
- Advanced strategic thinking in competitive scenarios
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Emphasise creative thinking over predetermined solutions - multiple strategies can be successful
- Foster inclusive teamwork where every member contributes meaningfully to group success
- Develop resilience by treating failed attempts as learning opportunities rather than failures
- Encourage strategic planning and reflection to develop higher-order thinking skills
- Model and reinforce positive communication patterns during collaborative challenges
- Connect problem-solving skills to real-world applications and future learning
- Celebrate diverse types of contributions including leadership, support, creativity, and persistence
Common Misconceptions
- Misconception: There's only one correct solution to each challenge. Reality: Multiple creative strategies can achieve success
- Misconception: The fastest group is always the most successful. Reality: Quality planning and teamwork matter more than speed
- Misconception: Leaders must be the loudest or most dominant. Reality: Effective leadership includes listening and facilitating others
- Misconception: Making mistakes means failure. Reality: Adaptation and learning from setbacks demonstrates growth
- Misconception: Individual ability determines group success. Reality: Collaboration and communication are key factors
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Break challenges into shorter segments, provide frequent positive feedback, allow movement breaks between activities
dyspraxia
- Simplify coordination requirements initially, provide additional practice time, use larger equipment for easier manipulation
autism spectrum
- Provide clear structure and routine, use visual schedules for activity sequence, create quiet zones for regulation breaks
visual impairment
- Use bright coloured equipment, provide detailed verbal descriptions of challenges, assign sighted buddy for guidance
hearing impairment
- Use visual demonstrations and signals, provide written challenge instructions, establish clear visual communication systems
physical disability
- Adapt crossing challenges for wheelchair users with ramps, modify throwing distances, provide alternative roles in team challenges
Cross-Curricular Links
English
Communication skills, vocabulary development, giving and receiving instructions clearly, descriptive language for reflection
Maths
Strategic planning using logical reasoning, spatial awareness in crossing challenges, probability in tactical decisions
Science
Forces and motion in mat movement, physics of balance in spider web challenge, simple machines concepts
Geography
Navigation and route planning, risk assessment of terrain, understanding of space and positioning
PSHE
Teamwork and cooperation, leadership skills development, resilience and perseverance, celebrating diversity of contributions
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Move constantly between groups to observe problem-solving processes and provide strategic hints when groups struggle
Observation Focus
Watch for creative thinking emergence, quality of team communication, and individual confidence levels
Intervention Points
Step in when safety compromised, groups showing exclusion behaviours, or when tactical hints needed
Demonstration Notes
Demonstrate: Use successful groups as live examples, show positive team communication, model resilience after setbacks
Verbal Cues
- •'What strategy could work here?'
- •'How might you adapt your approach?'
- •'What did you notice about the successful group?'
- •'How can you support your teammate here?'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Large hall or outdoor area minimum 20m x 30m with clear boundaries for multiple group activities
Surface Check
Non-slip, level surface free from obstacles, adequate drainage if outdoors
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check all strings/ropes for fraying or knots that could cause injury
- •Ensure mats are non-slip and lay flat
- •Verify sponge balls are soft and appropriate for throwing
- •Check hoops and cones are stable and have no sharp edges
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Slips and falls during mat crossing activities
- •Collisions during group movement exercises
- •Inappropriate throwing of balls causing injury
- •Entanglement in spider web strings
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear boundaries established for all activities
- •Adequate spacing maintained between groups
- •Demonstrate safe techniques before activities begin
- •Emergency stop signals established and practiced
- •Teacher positioned for optimal supervision of all groups
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for maximum visibility of all group activities
- •Monitor throwing activities closely for safe technique
- •Watch mat crossing for balance and coordination issues
- •Observe group dynamics for exclusion or conflict
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid or pastoral support, resume only when safe