Ideas
Mid Session Energize (brain gyms)
09 May 2009
The following activity has been suggested by our new Education Specialist, Laura Gray!
The reason we use brain gym is because it allows the children to stretch, let out some steam and compose themselves again ready for the next part of the lesson. It is used frequently after the teacher has explained the task ( whether it be written, verbal or game) before the actual task commences and it certainly helps the lesson flow. There are several different types of activities that we use, depending on the age and on whether we need to energize the children or encourage them to regain their focus in the lesson.
Here is a general outline for the routine of these sections of the lesson with some movements all of which can be differentiated accordingly.
Use a piece of music that they are familiar with ( maybe you have played it when they have been doing individual set work in the lesson) but also a piece that if they start to know the words the lyrics are relevant to them. Begin playing the tune quietly and lead up to loud so that the children are aware they need to stand and get ready for it.
I usually start with arms up as then you can see exactly who might not be paying attention and quickly get them on track.
Starting with your head/neck (looking up/down ad resting head on shoulder etc), moving to shoulders (1 at a time) arm swinging backwards/ forwards flush with the ear, then stretch the sides (arm over left and right) and then legs, ankles and toes (moving in circular motions)
More focussed movements
1.Crossing over hands to tap legs (connects both sides of the brain)
2.Making figure of 8 with hand in the air. First with one hand then with the other. Writing name in the air, again, one hand at a time
3.Balancing on one leg while moving ankle in figure of 8 or in circles
4.Whilst standing, cross over your ankles, then cross your hands and turn them together so they clasp. Pull them down wards and towards the body so now resting on your chest. Hold for 10 seconds.
5.Make a triangle out of 2 thumbs and 2 fore fingers. Hold it waist height and look through for 5 secs. (this regains focus and can be used as a closing movement to the session)
Other times it can be a small and simple dance routine which uses these types of movements but is more subtle and a way to release excess energy. Once completed it is surprising how calm the children are, ready and enthusiastic for the next part of the lesson.
All the children were able to engage with the workshops at their own level and some fantastic stories have been written since!
Literacy Coordinator, Crane Park Primary School