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Welcome PE Nation!

I want to share a fun card game based on the TV show "Traitors" that I've adapted for my PE classes as a rainy day activity. This engaging game of deduction and strategy has been a hit with my students and offers a great alternative when outdoor activities aren't possible.

• Uses a standard deck of cards with jokers as "traitors" and aces as "detectives"
• Works best with 2 traitors and 2 detectives for a class of 25 students
• Players are eliminated at night by traitos, while detectives try to identify the traders
• Group discussions lead to voting someone out, continuing until faithfuls or traitors win
• Perfect for grades 3-5 during indoor days, picture day disruptions, or extreme weather
• Pairs well with other indoor activities like BrainPop videos on health, cup stacking, and Kahoots
• Requires some management to keep eliminated students quiet and discussions moving efficiently

Give it a try!

Dave

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Mafia card game explained: https://youtu.be/Wx7kz5LpAz4?si=W6XM-DaY4l3_pluA

Beg, Borrow, Build and Steal ebook with links, Free game PDFs and my personal grant writing files: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Beg-Borrow-Build-and-Steal-Equipment-13063549

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Greeting PE Nation!

In this episode I share my accidental invention of "Splatball," a creative PE game using water-filled tennis ball canisters that explode on impact. This game emerged while seeking wind-resistant alternatives to traditional bowling pins for outdoor play.

• Game involves two teams trying to knock down opponent's water-filled canisters
• Can be played with bowling balls, hockey sticks, or other equipment
• Students whose pins get knocked down join offensive play so no one sits out
• Works best outdoors where splashing water evaporates quickly
• Various modifications possible based on age group and available space

Grab the free Splatball PDF in the episode notes to try this game with your students, and check out the video link to see the game in action. 

Take care,

Dave

FREE Splatball PDF

Splatball Video 1

Splatball Video 2

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***New FREE Video Course!!!***

Beg, Borrow, Build and Steal ebook with links, Free game PDFs and my personal grant writing files: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Beg-Borrow-Build-and-Steal-Equipment-13063549

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FREE E-Book on setting up your PE program

My website: https://www.supersizedphysed.com

Get my book: High Fives and Empowering Lives: A Physical Educator’s Quest for Excellence

Paperback or download: HERE

Amazon Ebook: HERE

Website for the book: https://www.teacherchefhockeyplayerbook.com/

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Helmets on PE Nation!

In this episode we explore how to create a bike program for PE classes. Learning to ride bikes in PE class gives students both essential physical skills and valuable road safety knowledge while creating memorable experiences.

• Started with a one-day professional development course on biking for PE teachers
• District offered a bike trailer program with bikes and scooters for schools
• Created obstacle courses teaching road safety, signals, and proper crossing techniques
• Students learned through both structured activities and free riding time
• Used hairnets under helmets to address hygiene concerns
• When district funding ended, began planning a DIY approach through donations
• Storage remains the biggest challenge - considering outdoor shed options
• Looking into grants, PTO funding, and police department helmet programs
• Applies to any PE activity: "If you dream it, build it, make it work, make it happen"

Let's ride,

Dave

Link to article with the "Biking Tree" picture!

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***New FREE Video Course!!!***

Beg, Borrow, Build and Steal ebook with links, Free game PDFs and my personal grant writing files: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Beg-Borrow-Build-and-Steal-Equipment-13063549

Become a guest on the show: podcast signup form

FREE E-Book on setting up your PE program

My website: https://www.supersizedphysed.com

Get my book: High Fives and Empowering Lives: A Physical Educator’s Quest for Excellence

Paperback or download: HERE

Amazon Ebook: HERE

Website for the book: https://www.teacherchefhockeyplayerbook.com/

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Hello PE Nation!

Today I discuss how I implement SOLO Taxonomy in my PE class. This model offers a powerful framework for structuring learning progression in physical education, taking students from basic knowledge to creative application through five distinct stages. 

• SOLO stands for Structure of Observed Learning Outcomes
• The five stages progress from pre-structural (knowing nothing) to extended abstract (creating something new)
• Using Legos as an example: level 1 is not knowing what Legos are, level 5 is creating original designs without instructions
• Similar progression with musical instruments: from holding a guitar to jamming and creating new songs
• Modified approach using numbered magnets makes the system more kid-friendly
• Implemented successfully with dance, hockey, soccer, football, and pickleball units
• Students track their own progress and clearly understand what skills they need to advance
• Higher-level students can help teach others and create new games or activities

Take care,

Dave

LEGO video

SOLO hand signal video

Sample SOLO PDF

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Beg, Borrow, Build and Steal ebook with links, Free game PDFs and my personal grant writing files: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Beg-Borrow-Build-and-Steal-Equipment-13063549

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Hello PE Nation!

I've been thinking about my formative years in elementary school and what stuck with me. This episode is a reflective journey through my elementary school years, uncovering cherished and challenging memories that continue to influence my teaching practices. There is more to our recollections than meets the eye; each moment shapes us as educators.

• Reflecting on personal school memories from pre-K to sixth grade 
• Exploring how relationships with teachers impacted my learning 
• Discussing the emotional aspects of student experiences in school 
• Emphasizing the importance of nurturing positive environments in education 

Thank you for tuning in to our podcast! Don’t forget to subscribe for more insights and educational tips! 

Take care,

Dave

Join my Substack newsletter, where I share PE tips, games and strategies.

Beg, Borrow, Build and Steal ebook with links, Free game PDFs and my personal grant writing files: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Beg-Borrow-Build-and-Steal-Equipment-13063549

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FREE E-Book on setting up your PE program

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Hello PE Nation!

How much money are you working with at your school? In this episode, you will learn how to effectively manage your PE equipment budget to bring more variety and excitement to your classes. This episode explores strategies to acquire equipment creatively by begging, borrowing, building, and stealing.

• Strategies to maximize PE resources on a budget 
• Importance of asking for support from PTOs and community members 
• Benefits of borrowing equipment from fellow teachers 
• Building and adapting existing materials creatively 
• How to steal ideas for games and activities from others 
• eBook promotion with additional resources and grant applications 
• Encouragement to engage with local resources and community support

Take care,

Dave

Beg, Borrow, Build and Steal ebook with links, Free game PDFs and my personal grant writing files: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Beg-Borrow-Build-and-Steal-Equipment-13063549

Join my Substack newsletter, where I share PE tips, games and strategies.

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FREE E-Book on setting up your PE program

My website: https://www.supersizedphysed.com

Website for the book: https://www.teacherchefhockeyplayerbook.com/

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Greetings PE Nation!

In my latest interview, Dave LeCarrie reflects on the importance of teaching life skills through physical education, emphasizing activities like archery and biking. The episode explores the need for patience with younger students, the significance of community connections, and the lasting impact teachers have on their students' lives. 

• Teaching special skills like biking and archery to foster confidence and ability 
• Emphasizing the importance of patience, particularly with younger generations 
• Innovating PE to include both fun and educational activities for engagement 
• The supportive role of sports in building community and character 
• Lasting relationships with students showcase the deeper impact educators can have

Take a listen to a fantastic conversation I had with Dave!

Take care,

Dave (the other one)

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Hello PE Nation!

Yes, I want to discuss dodgeball once more. Today my episode examines the role of dodgeball in physical education, advocating for its removal from school settings due to its potential to foster bullying, injuries, and an exclusionary environment. I share personal insights, alongside research and alternative activities, emphasizing the need for a more inclusive and beneficial approach to physical education.

• Discussion on the SHAPE position against dodgeball 
• Personal experiences showcasing the nostalgia and drawbacks of the game 
• Examination of bullying, injuries, and legal concerns related to dodgeball 
• Reflection on educator responsibilities and potential alternatives 
• Encouragement for PE teachers to reevaluate their approaches and games 
• Call to action for adopting a more inclusive curriculum

Thanks for listening,

Dave

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Link to the article: https://pedave1017.substack.com/p/61ff1f39-a9f2-4f04-aca2-4550329a24b7?postPreview=paid&updated=2025-01-26T17%3A39%3A09.996Z&audience=everyone&free_preview=false&freemail=true

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Greetings PE Nation!
Recently I had a fantastic conversation with my fellow friend and colleague,  Tim Taggart, who discusses his journey in creating TAGG-ED Balls and transforming physical education through innovative games that enhance literacy and math skills. By sharing engaging strategies and tools, Tim inspires educators to cultivate active learning environments that foster student success.

• Insights into Tim's transition from employee to entrepreneur
• Overview of TAGG-ED Balls and their educational benefits
• Importance of collaboration with teachers for product development
• Role of 3D printing in creating custom educational tools
• Engaging game examples using TAGG-ED Balls for literacy and math
• Discussion of the positive impact on student engagement and learning outcomes
• Importance of building connections with classroom teachers for holistic education
• Encouragement for educators to innovate and adapt teaching practices
Take a listen and reach out to Tim!

Dave

Follow Tim online:
Website: https://www.taggtime.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TAGG-TIME
Twitter (X): https://x.com/timgtaggart1
IG: https://www.instagram.com/taggtimellc/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=tagg%20time%20llc
Pool Noodle Lightsaber 4 square! https://x.com/timgtaggart1/status/1849284443069878440


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Hello Friends of PE Nation!
My interview today with Michael Todisco was incredible! I think we share a brain! The conversation reveals the powerful impact of relationship-building in physical education, focusing on creating a fun and engaging environment. We explore strategies for managing large classes and the importance of student ownership, alongside reflections on teaching practices and the overall goal of fostering well-rounded individuals.

• Importance of building student relationships
• Strategies for managing large classes effectively
• Importance of fun in PE as a teaching tool
• The role of reflections and teaching flexibility in lesson planning
• Creating ownership and accountability among students
• Emphasizing sportsmanship and teamwork as learning outcomes
• The role of PE in instilling character and life skills
• Innovative teaching methods and incorporating cultural elements
Take care,
Dave

Links to activities Michael discussed on his "Amazing Race":
Race Around the World Presentation
Oodles of Noodles
Blind Catches
Team Rope Running
Statue of Liberty

Reach out to Michael:
Email: [email protected]
Twitter/X: @MichaelTodisco1

Join my Substack newsletter, where I share PE tips, games and strategies.

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My website: https://www.supersizedphysed.com

Website for the book: https://www.teacherchefhockeyplayerbook.com/