Narrate the Positive: A Powerful Strategy from Doug Lemov for Adapted Physical Education

Teach Like a Champion

In the world of education, Doug Lemov’s “Teach Like a Champion” has become a seminal text, offering a compendium of techniques to elevate teaching effectiveness. I myself know it well , as it was a centerpiece for my teacher training when I was a Special Education Teacher in the DC Teaching Fellows Program in Washington D.C. One of these techniques, “Narrate the Positive,” is particularly impactful in the realm of Adapted Physical Education (APE). This approach emphasizes the power of positive reinforcement and can significantly enhance the learning environment for students with diverse needs.

Narrate the Positive: The Concept

At its core, “Narrate the Positive” involves the teacher actively acknowledging and verbalizing the positive behaviors and efforts of students. This technique moves beyond mere praise; it’s about providing specific, real-time feedback that recognizes and reinforces positive actions and choices.

Application in Adapted Physical Education

In an APE setting, where students may have varying physical abilities and learning styles, “Narrate the Positive” is invaluable. This approach helps in building confidence, reinforcing effort, and promoting a positive learning environment. Here are some examples of how it can be applied:

1. Encouraging Effort: When a student with limited mobility tries a new movement or reaches a physical milestone, highlighting this effort (“I see how hard you worked to move your arm higher in that stretch, great job!”) can boost their confidence and motivation.
2. Promoting Inclusivity: In group activities, acknowledging students who are being inclusive (“Sam, I noticed you passed the ball to Jake, ensuring everyone is included”) fosters a sense of community and teaches the importance of teamwork.
3. Reinforcing Learning: For students learning a new skill, specific feedback (“Anna, you kept your balance perfectly during that exercise”) helps in cementing the skill and provides a clear understanding of what they are doing right.
4. Building Autonomy: Commending students when they take initiative or demonstrate independence in an activity (“You set up your equipment correctly on your own today, well done!”) empowers them and encourages self-reliance.

The Impact on Students

By narrating the positive, educators in APE create an environment where students feel seen and valued. This approach not only reinforces desired behaviors but also helps in building a positive classroom culture. Students are more likely to take risks, try new things, and engage actively when they know their efforts are recognized.

Conclusion

Doug Lemov’s “Narrate the Positive” is a powerful tool in the toolkit of an Adapted Physical Education teacher. It’s about creating a positive ripple effect that not only acknowledges achievements but also builds a foundation for continuous growth and development. By applying this technique, educators can make a significant impact on their students’ physical, social, and emotional well-being.

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