Unit Plan 25 (Grade 2 PE): Conflict Resolution in Games
Teach Grade 2 students to resolve game disagreements using calm words, rock-paper-scissors, and do-overs, building self-control, cooperation, and respectful play.
Focus: Build self-control, conflict resolution, and respectful game behavior by helping students use simple solutions such as rock-paper-scissors, do-over, and calm teacher-guided language to solve disagreements and keep games going.
Grade Level: 2
Subject Area: Physical Education (Personal & Social Responsibility • Cooperation & Respect • Conflict Resolution)
Total Unit Duration: 1 core session + 2 optional sessions (1–3 weeks), 50–60 minutes per session
I. Introduction
Students learn that games do not always go perfectly, and that is okay. In PE, students sometimes disagree about who was tagged first, whether a ball landed in or out, whose turn it is, or whether a point should count. This unit helps students practice what to do next instead of arguing, blaming, or quitting. Through short role-plays and simple tag or target games, students learn how to use self-control, kind words, rock-paper-scissors, do-over rules, and teacher-guided solutions to solve small problems and keep the game moving. The goal is to help students understand that good players are not only active and skillful—they also help games stay fair, calm, and fun for everyone.
Essential Questions
- What can I do when a disagreement happens during a game?
- How can I use kind words and self-control when I feel frustrated?
- When should players use rock-paper-scissors, a do-over, or ask for teacher help?
- How do respectful conflict-resolution strategies help games stay fun and fair?
II. Objectives and Standards
Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:
- Demonstrate self-control during simple game disagreements.
- Use beginning conflict-resolution strategies such as rock-paper-scissors, replay/do-over, and calm teacher-guided solutions.
- Work cooperatively with classmates by taking turns, listening, and using respectful language during play.
- Explain how positive conflict resolution helps games continue safely and fairly.
Standards Alignment — 2nd Grade (SHAPE America-based custom)
- PE:S4.2c – Self-Control & Conflict Resolution Use self-control and simple strategies to resolve conflicts or disagreements during play (e.g., rock-paper-scissors, replay, teacher-guided solutions).
- Example: When two students disagree about who was tagged first, they use rock-paper-scissors to decide.
- PE:S4.2b – Cooperation & Respect Work cooperatively with partners and groups, taking turns, sharing equipment, and using kind words.
- Example: Students rotate through stations, share balls, and say “good job” to teammates.
Success Criteria — Student Language
- I can stay calm when a game disagreement happens.
- I can use rock-paper-scissors, a do-over, or ask for help the right way.
- I can use kind words and listen to others during games.
- I can help the game keep going instead of arguing.