Tactile Movement Balls
Using balls and movement to ramp up classroom fun.
Big Idea
Creating a few beach balls, or other soft, light, spheres, for differentiating almost any topic is a fun and engaging way to get students moving.
Directions
As educators, we know that building positive relationships with students is a must. Creating a Beachball with fun questions can be a great way to take breaks, exit the classroom, and generally just another way to learn more about your students.
First: Decide on the purpose of the particular sphere.
- Will it be for getting to know students?
- Will it be a general use ball that can be integrated into your curriculum?
- Will it be used for anchoring and facilitating classroom discussion?
Next: Check out 3 types of ball-based differentiators below and try one.
Your students will love it
Questions are general to your content area
This type of ball can be used as a classroom conversation point, check for understanding and generally a more academic focal point.
The Icebreaker/ Game Ball
This type of ball is covered in silly, nonacademic, low-pressure questions. This ball is great for getting to know students and building relationships.
The general numbered or lettered ball
Add this type of sphere to your class by simply including an associated number or letter.
- Group or individual assigned task
- Reluctant flyers/ participants
- Ordering
- Other fun uses