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      Sheep pen communication challenge as a team

      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can utilise problem solving and communication skills to perform as a team and then consider what we could have done differently.

      Key learning points

      1. Move: with arms outstretched in front, the risk of bumping into things is reduced.
      2. Move: working quickly and efficiently through the tasks can lead to success.
      3. Think: successful completion of a task requires careful planning and strict following of agreed instructions.
      4. Feel: ​​trusting in others ensures we don’t walk into obstacles while wearing a blindfold.
      5. Connect: clear communication requires you to speak in a loud and clear voice, but also to pause and listen to others.

      Keywords

      • Miscommunication - failure to communicate clearly or adequately enough to be properly understood

      • Instructions - detailed directions or steps provided to guide someone in completing a task

      • Patience - the ability to stay calm and tolerant while waiting or facing challenges

      Common misconception

      To win you must be the quickest and race to complete tasks

      If we rush communication, we will not properly understand which will lead to mistakes. Even if we finish first, it will be irrelevant if the task is completed incorrectly.

      Teacher tip

      Provide ample time to discuss a communication strategy in learning cycle 3. In addition, be sure to plan time for quality reflection, giving the opportunity for pupils to consider what they could have done differently.

      Equipment

      Hoops or chalk, cones, bibs, blindfolds or alternatives items to be used as blindfolds, 15 of 4 different items (cones, hoops, bibs could be 3 of the 4).

      Content guidance

      Risk assessment required - outdoor learning

      Risk assessment required - physical activity

      Supervision

      Adult supervision required

      Licence

      This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2026), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0
      except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions
      (Collection 2).

      Prior knowledge starter quiz

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      What is a process of elimination?

      rejecting all ideas
      Correct answer: narrowing down options
      accepting all ideas

      Q2.
      How can dominant leaders ensure full team involvement in a task?

      Correct answer: encourage others’ ideas
      take the lead
      delegate all tasks

      Q3.
      What important feelings could be developed by being part of a team?

      indifference
      apathy
      Correct answer: belonging

      Q4.
      How could we demonstrate our critical thinking skills?

      Correct answer: question and analyse
      remembering facts
      exploring ideas

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      How can we move to protect ourselves from injury if we have no vision?

      arms extended
      fast bold steps
      imagine a pathway

      Q2.
      Successful completion of a task requires careful planning but what else is important?

      Correct answer: following the plan
      being spontaneous
      adding your ideas

      Q3.
      What must we be in order to earn the trust of our partner?

      loud
      Correct answer: honest and reliable
      happy

      Q4.
      How can we ensure that we hear instructions correctly?

      ask questions
      nod and agree
      Correct answer: pause and listen

      To help you plan your 7 physical education lesson on: Sheep pen communication challenge as a team, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...