Physical educators have multiple tasks when teaching children. Some responsibilities include teaching a variety of skills and motor activities, providing a physically active learning environment, addressing safety and health issues, and making assessments of student learning. One way that I have found successful for assessing student learning is bringing trivia to the gym. Instead of simply asking questions to check for student learning, I make it "Trivia Time". With this game format, students are more attentive, and much more student interest is achieved.

Questions during "Trivia Time" are given at a much faster rate than during a regular question and answer time period. Sometimes, I look for students with quiet hands up that have an immediate response, and other times I randomly choose individuals (if they have trouble they can always use teamwork and choose a "lifeline"). Make sure you have some questions thought out in advance that cover the desired material, and have an obvious answer. Always repeat correct answers given, and praise the student. This confirms the right answer, and makes the student feel great for answering the question. Sometimes you may even ask the same question successively, just to keep the students on their toes!

"Trivia Time" can occur at multiple times during a lesson, and incorporate a variety of material. In the beginning of class, it is a great tool to review previous skills and terms, or rules of a game. During class it can be used as a transition from one activity to another, or perhaps as a "bonus" during an activity (correct answer allows a student or group to start early, or perhaps one team may get ten seconds of free shots). At the end of class "Trivia Time" becomes an excellent review session to reemphasize main points.

"Trivia Time" can also extend beyond the gym. Create a bulletin board for display with many small folded question cards. Include the answers on the reverse side, and see how often they get read! You may also want to talk with classroom teachers and see what they are currently studying. Throw in a few questions about what students are learning about in class with the exercise and health questions, and watch the student's eyes light up! "Trivia Time" makes learning fun, and with the popularity of game shows like "Millionaire", students will really buy into it! The only limitation on the game is your imagination.

For more information on using "Trivia Time" in your teaching contact Kory McMahon.