"Using Pedometers in the PE Classroom" by Todd Keating

The Life Stepper Pedometer motivates, measures and rewards students

Welcome to the world of “I can’t get my students to stop moving.” Now that’s the kind of problem I like to have. My name is Todd Keating and I have been using the Stepper Pedometers in my 3-5 classes. This year I started a unit called “Steppin’ Through the Heartland.”

No matter what I am teaching for the day I have my 3-5 students put on their Steppers as soon as they enter the class. Each student knows if they receive 1700 steps for that day they will be awarded a One Mile Toe Token (Fitness Finders). If they receive over 1000 steps they will get the famous 1000 Stepper Stamp. These two motivational factors are key to students constantly checking (feedback) their steppers to see if they are on target toward their goal for the day.

My fifth grade classes write down the individual daily totals. The individual and class total are entered in the computer via “data input students.”

Now I have personal data on each student’s activity level. Assessment information for parents on each child FOR EVERY CLASS to be shared with parents at conference time.

A mileage conversion is done automatically on my computer excel program and we now can track and chart class distance on a map of our home state. We visit historical sights and other schools who are involved in similar walking/running programs and correspond via email.

It is great to see something as simple as a Stepper Pedometer (made by Yamax) can make such a big difference. Now I have a tool to motivate, measure and defend my program for the fitness benefits students are receiving EVERY DAY.

If you have any questions regarding the unit or the Stepper Pedometer product I am available at http://www.walk4life.com or through the email address below.

Todd Keating