Keep+it+Up

Name of Activity: Keep It Up

Suggested Grade Level: 4th and Up Materials Needed: Beach balls, foam balls, supermarket balls or any ball that is appropriate for students of this age to volley successfully Description of Idea Have students form into groups of three/four. The groups then need to choose a ball they would like to volley between them. After they find a good safe playing space in the activity area they are to have one student start the activity either by volleying or tossing the ball to another group member. From then on their task is to try to keep the ball in the air. They must use either bumping or setting skills that they have previously practiced in class. Students can hit the ball twice in a row if they want. If the ball hits the floor they start again. Variations: It they want the students can count how many hits they keep the ball going. Have them try to break their record. If they are having trouble then allow them to strike the ball anyway they wish to.

The following activity is taken from the book entitled "Children Moving: A Reflective Approach to Teaching Physical Education (5th Edition)" authored by George Graham, Shirley Holt/Hale, and Melissa Parker. Mayfield Publishing has granted exclusive permission to PE Central to reprint this activity. Further reproduction of this task is strictly prohibited unless permission is obtained from Mayfield Publishers. To order the book (ISBN #1-55934-130-0) or to seek permission call Mayfield at 1-415-960-3222.

Teaching Suggestions: If a group is having trouble encourage them to get a different type of ball. Assess their bumping and setting skills using our Teacher Cue Checklist Sheet No diving for a ball is allowed. Students must stay on their feet! Encourage students to call the ball if it comes to them. This encourages communication just like on a volleyball team.