As Humans we Need to Move

As humans we need to move

For some reason, and contrary to research, the traditional education system still tends to separate the mind from the body and yet most teachers have long recognised the connection between physical and mental learning. The latest research has gone much further. We now know that the cerebellum – the cauliflower-shaped tissue clump that lies at the base of the brain, known for its role in posture, coordination, balance and movement, has a far greater role than was initially thought. Although it takes up only one tenth of the brains volume it contains more than half of all our neurons and some forty million nerve fibres. It has been found that the communication between the cerebrum and the cerebellum is critical. It creates a two way highway system of information known as RAS (recticular activating system). Neurophysiologist Carla Hannaford says that the interaction between these two systems helps us keep our balance, translates thinking into action and coordinates body movements. Typical playground games and motions such as swinging, rolling and jumping stimulate this system.

“When we don’t move and activate the vestibular system we are not taking information from our environment”

ALL humans can benefit from movement exercises/activities/structures that facilitate the desired movements.

One of the many important aspects of Spencer Kagan’s work is highlighting the role of movement in learning. Many structures involve movement, in fact it is ‘built-in’ as a step e.g. Mix Pair Share, Quiz Quiz Trade, Numbered Heads Together to name a few. (See ‘Recommended Read’- Silly Sports and Goofy Games)

State changers that involve movement could be:

mime scenario seat change stretching and breathing exercises walk reviews hand jives structures

…..all of the above can all creatively incorporate twists, turns, jumps, large/small motor movements and which subsequently activate RAS and therefore improve brain function.

Here are some movement ideas we like to use at T2T(UK):

Bumblebee – I love this one

….it’s fast and has the giggle factor

Students sit round an empty table bar one possession each (ball/pen/keys) and slap, clap and grab in the following sequence:

slap the table top once with both hands clap your hands twice slap the table top twice with both hands quickly clap your hands once reach with your right hand and grab the object in front of the person to your left slide the object in front of you…repeat Hand Jive – slap laps, hand claps, flat hands cross, fist on top of fist, hitchhike alternate hands, Now we know how important it is to spin and rotate why not be creative and add some turns. What about with a partner?

Hand to Fist

In pairs, students stand facing each other Each partner makes a fist with the right hand and holds up the left hand with the palm open. Each student alternates their hand movements pushing into the opposite hand movements of their partner’s. Build up speed. Next stage includes a wrist crossover while still alternating the hand movements

This game is a great equaliser. No-one can predict who will catch on first. If the academically slower child achieves success it is an ideal opportunity for them to show off their skills and coach the less able.

More reasons to include movement in the learning process:

· It activates both sides of the brain – increases bi-lateral processing

· It draws out the potential locked in the body and enables the student to access those areas of the brain previously unavailable to them

· It helps students to switch back onto an optimal learning state

· It poses a low threat activity

· It’s great in preparing the brain for further learning.

· It’s useful as a metaphor for learning - ‘learning a new skill involves practise and learning from the moments of failure’

· It’s FUN!