Being Active
Children discover the benefits of physical exercise and identify different ways to stay active every day.
TL;DR:Being active focuses on the physical and mental benefits of exercise for 1st Class students. This topic is part of the NCCA SPHE strand 'Myself,' specifically 'Taking care of my body.' It encourages children to find joy in movement and to understand how being active helps their hearts, muscles, and even their moods.
About This Topic
Being active focuses on the physical and mental benefits of exercise for 1st Class students. This topic is part of the NCCA SPHE strand 'Myself,' specifically 'Taking care of my body.' It encourages children to find joy in movement and to understand how being active helps their hearts, muscles, and even their moods.
In Ireland, this links to the 'Active School Flag' initiative and the PE curriculum. The goal is to move away from 'exercise as a chore' and toward 'movement as play.' This topic is naturally suited to active learning, as students can directly experience the effects of exercise through simulations and collaborative games.
Key Questions
- Why does my body need exercise?
- What are my favorite active games?
- How do I feel after playing outside?
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
Common MisconceptionExercise is only for people who are good at sports.
What to Teach Instead
Children often think 'being active' means being on a team. Active brainstorming of 'The Activity Menu' helps them see that walking, dancing, and playing in the park are all valuable forms of exercise.
Common MisconceptionYou only need to be active during PE class.
What to Teach Instead
Students may see exercise as a scheduled event. Use collaborative tasks to identify 'active moments' throughout the day, like taking the stairs or playing at break time.
Active Learning Ideas
See all activities→Simulation Game
The Heart Rate Race
Students sit quietly and feel their 'resting' heart rate (or breath). They then do one minute of jumping jacks and feel the difference. They discuss why their heart is beating faster and how it's 'working out' to keep them strong.
Inquiry Circle
The Activity Menu
In small groups, students brainstorm all the different ways to be active (e.g., dancing, GAA, walking the dog, tag). They create a 'menu' of activities and present their favorite 'dish' (activity) to the class.
Think-Pair-Share
How Do I Feel?
After a period of movement, children think about how their body and mind feel (e.g., 'happy,' 'tired but good,' 'awake'). They share with a partner to connect physical activity with emotional well-being.