Lesson Activity: "Sharks in the Water" Inspired by Danny Go

This energetic lesson combines physical movement with visual and audio engagement from Danny Go’s YouTube videos “Sharks in the Water 1 and 2.” By projecting the video on the wall, students can visually follow along while being physically active in a fun and safe environment.

Special thanks to Dexter & Donnelly at SEES for this idea!

Objective:

The primary goal is to improve students’ gross motor skills, coordination, and spatial awareness, while using a fun theme to keep them engaged. The activity encourages quick reactions and motor planning as students “swim” and find safe zones.

Materials Needed:

• Projector and screen or wall to display the “Sharks in the Water” video
• Mats, foam blocks, or other items to serve as “boats” or “rocks”
• Open gym or activity space
• Speaker for audio cues (if needed)

Activity Setup:

1. Project the Video: Set up a projector and play Danny Go’s “Sharks in the Water 1 and 2” on a large screen or wall. Make sure the sound is loud enough for all students to hear.
2. Create Safe Zones: Place mats or foam blocks sporadically around the gym floor. These represent “boats” or “rocks” where students will go when they hear “sharks in the water!”
3. Gym Floor as the Water: The open space (gym floor) will serve as the “water” where students run or swim.

How to Play:

1. Watch and Follow: Play the “Sharks in the Water” video, and let the students watch while listening for cues.
2. Running and Swimming: When Danny Go says “swim,” students will run around the gym while moving their arms as if they’re swimming through the water. You can guide those who need help with movement or provide alternate tasks (e.g., walking for students with mobility challenges).
3. Sharks in the Water Cue: When students hear “sharks in the water!” in the video, they must quickly stop swimming and run to one of the “boats” or “rocks” (mats or foam blocks) to stay safe.
4. Repeat the Process: The video will prompt several rounds of swimming and shark alerts, giving students multiple chances to practice their listening skills and react quickly.

Adaptations for Different Abilities:

• Mobility Challenges: Students in wheelchairs or those with limited mobility can roll or move their arms in a swimming motion while navigating the space.
• Visual Impairments: Provide tactile cues by placing textured items on the “boats” or “rocks” so students can feel when they’ve reached safety.
• Auditory Support: For students who may struggle with hearing, use visual signals (e.g., hold up a shark sign) when it’s time to get to safety.

Learning Goals:

• Gross Motor Skills: Running, swimming, and moving between zones.
• Listening and Reaction Time: Students must react quickly to the “sharks in the water” cue.
• Spatial Awareness: Moving around the space without bumping into others.

Reflection:

After the game, bring the students together and discuss how they felt during the activity. Ask questions like:

• What was the hardest part about escaping the sharks?
• How did they know when to stop and get to safety?

This reflection helps reinforce the skills they practiced while tying the activity back to adapted physical education.