Problem of Practice:
I want to foster greater engagement and enthusiasm for learning new ELA content by intentionally incorporating play into my teaching practice. My goal is to explore how play can support the development of reading skills and deepen understanding in social studies, while also nurturing students’ independence, empowerment, and cooperation.
To do this, I will draw on frameworks such as Responsive Classroom and Pedagogy of Play to design meaningful, play-based learning experiences. I plan to adapt and enrich Teachers College (TC) lessons through the lens of play and partnership, making content more accessible and joyful for students.
By creating a classroom environment where learning feels active, collaborative, and student-driven, I hope to see increased self-regulation, longer attention spans, and deeper investment in learning. I believe that when students are genuinely engaged and see themselves as active participants, they are more likely to follow directions independently and take ownership of their growth.
As I move forward, I continue to reflect on this question: How can I design and implement a more play-based curriculum that truly supports the academic, emotional, and social development of all my students?
Peer Comments: Hi Gerri,
Your goal of using play to enhance social skills and reading development is a thoughtful approach, especially with the added focus on problem-solving and conflict resolution. Incorporating resources like Adventures in Peacemaking, Responsive Classroom, and Pedagogy of Play will give you great tools to create those play-based lessons. How do you envision balancing the playful nature of these activities with the structure needed to meet your students' academic and behavioral goals, while keeping them invested and independent in their learning? - Sue Luft