Small-Sided Games: Developmentally Appropriate Applications in Traditional Activities.

This paper presents a systematic progression of small-sided games within two traditional sports units (soccer and volleyball). Developmentally appropriate guidelines encourage teachers at all levels to incorporate small-sided games (2v2, 3v3, and 4v4). Advantages of small-sided games include: allowing students numerous practice opportunities; keeping students active and involved in game play; decreasing complexity of games, thus increasing student success; allowing for ability groupings; and making assessment easier. Small-sided games need a systematic progression of activities that have a clear lesson focus. If structured correctly, small-sided games can provide many of the progressions that are often missing links in planning. One of the best small-sided game approaches to invasion or goal oriented sports is the grid system. A typical grid system for soccer is included, noting hints for more advanced concepts. In volleyball, students need to be able to control the ball in order to begin playing. A small-sided approach to volleyball begins with the forearm pass, with students in groups of three on either side of the net. The paper explains setup of the game and describes an excellent variation of the basic game entitled King/Queen of the Court. (SM)