Mastery Climate: Scoring the Attempt in Volleyball

Two volleyball games are played with different scoring: a standard game and one where attempting difficult skills, such as an overhand serve or a jump attack, also earns points even if they fail. Students see how a mastery climate reduces fear of failure and increases attempts.

How to play

1. Game 1: 4-on-4 volleyball with standard scoring; one observer per team counts attempts at overhand serves, jump attacks and overhead sets (8 min).
2. Explain the mastery climate system: each attempt at a difficult skill earns the team a bonus point, whether or not the rally is won (2 min).
3. Game 2 with dual scoring, rally points and attempt points, while the observer keeps counting (10 min).
4. Compare attempts in the two games and how it felt to fail in each (5 min).
5. Each team proposes a rule for the next game that encourages trying without devaluing winning (5 min).

Rules

• Jump attacks are made without crossing under the net and with a clear landing area.
• Celebrate teammates' attempts; no blaming for misses.
• The observer awards attempt points based on a list of skills agreed on beforehand.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: sitting volleyball in one area of the court with a lower net.
• Visual impairment: a larger, high-contrast ball, with one bounce allowed before hitting.
• Low self-esteem or anxiety: agree with the observer on difficult skills suited to their level.

Learning goals

• Distinguish a mastery climate from a performance climate.
• Test how the scoring system affects fear of failure.
• Propose team rules that encourage trying without fear.

Equipment for a class of 25

• volleyballs: 4
• volleyball nets: 2
• pinnies: 16
• worksheets: 4

Teacher tip

With 28 students, set up two 4-on-4 courts with rotating observers. Remember that the climate also comes from how you grade in class.

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