Unit Plan 11 (Grade 3 PE): Cooperative Challenges & Problem Solving
Build teamwork and problem-solving skills with cooperative PE challenges that promote communication, persistence, and positive group participation.
Focus: Strengthen communication, problem-solving, effort, and persistence through cooperative team challenges that require students to work together and stay positive.
Grade Level: 3
Subject Area: Physical Education (Cooperative Challenges • Teamwork • Problem Solving & Persistence)
Total Unit Duration: 1 core session + 2 optional sessions (1–3 weeks), 50–60 minutes per session
I. Introduction
Students explore cooperative challenges as opportunities to think, communicate, and move together in ways that build trust and teamwork. In this unit, students begin with partner mirror walking and stretching so they can practice watching a classmate, matching movement, and staying aware of personal space. They then apply those skills in Cross the River, Human Knot, and Hula Hoop Pass, where success depends on listening, trying ideas, staying on task, and encouraging one another through challenges. Throughout the unit, students focus on working as a team, solving problems calmly, showing effort even when tasks feel difficult, and keeping a positive attitude while learning together.
Essential Questions
- How can communication help a group solve a challenge?
- What does teamwork look like when a task feels difficult?
- Why is persistence important in cooperative games?
- How can a positive attitude help a group keep trying?
II. Objectives and Standards
Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:
- Cooperate with partners and groups during movement-based problem-solving challenges.
- Show effort, responsibility, and on-task behavior while working through difficult tasks.
- Express enjoyment and a positive attitude during cooperative activities.
Standards Alignment — 3rd Grade (SHAPE America-based custom)
- PE:S4.3b – Cooperation, Encouragement, and Teamwork Cooperate with partners and teams, share equipment, take turns, and encourage others.
- Example: Students rotate through stations smoothly, give positive feedback to teammates, and help reset equipment.
- PE:S4.3e – Effort, Responsibility, and On-Task Behavior Show consistent effort, stay on task, and take responsibility for participation (e.g., being prepared, returning equipment, helping with cleanup).
- Example: Students quickly transition to new activities, continue trying challenging skills, and help collect equipment at the end of class.
- PE:S5.3a – Enjoyment and Positive Attitude Express enjoyment and a positive attitude toward participating in a variety of physical activities and games.
- Example: Students state which activities they enjoyed and show enthusiasm by actively participating.
Success Criteria — Student Language
- I can work with my group to solve a challenge.
- I can stay on task and keep trying when something is hard.
- I can encourage others and use teamwork.
- I can show a positive attitude during group activities.