Exploring what lies beneath the Invasion Game Iceberg

Exploring what lies beneath the Invasion Game Iceberg

Invasion games are common and important elements of most schools’ HPE curricula and are
some of the most popular sports played formally and informally by children. A HPE teacher in
regional Queensland state schools for thirty years, the presenter has found that an increasing
number of students in his classes were demonstrating little familiarity with, and understanding
of, the basic concepts underpinning invasion games. This active workshop will allow attendees
to participate in a game that the presenter plays and develops with students from middle to
senior secondary levels. It involves constant modifications which, on the surface, provide
variety for the students, but which also effectively (and subversively) introduce and reinforce
concepts integral to the playing of invasion games. Using whatever space and equipment is
available, playing this highly adaptable activity has enhanced students' engagement,
enjoyment, decision-making and tactical thinking during class. It can be used as a template for
fun and active lessons on its own or as a building block towards a specific invasion game using
physical skills relevant to that game or as an introduction to game creation or catch-run-pass
units.