Pat-on-the-Back Notes
Each student has a sheet of paper taped to their back, and classmates walk around slowly writing positive, anonymous notes on it about their attitude or effort in PE. It builds self-esteem, group cohesion and a positive class climate, and works great to close out a unit.
How to play
- Hand out one sheet of paper and a strip of masking tape per student; in pairs, they tape the sheet to each other's upper back.
- Explain that notes must be positive, specific and about class, for example: 'You always cheer on the team' or 'You explain the rules really well.'
- Play soft music; students walk slowly around the room with a marker and write a short sentence on the back of each classmate they meet.
- Every minute, when the music drops, everyone stops, takes one deep breath and moves to a different area to meet new people; the goal is to write on at least 6 backs in 5 minutes.
- When time is up, everyone sits in a circle, takes off their sheet and reads it silently for 1 minute.
- Close by inviting volunteers to read aloud their favorite note; everyone keeps their sheet.
Rules
- Positive notes only; a hurtful comment means you lose your marker.
- Write gently and don't press hard on your classmate's back.
- Walk around the room without running or crowding together.
- Nobody gets left out: if you see a sheet with only a few notes, write on it.
Variations
Easier
Post sentence starters on the board, such as 'I like how you...' or 'Thanks for...'.
Standard
At least six notes per sheet, written over five minutes with soft music.
Harder
Each note must mention a specific moment in the unit when that person stood out.
Adaptations
- Students with limited mobility can stay in one spot while classmates come to them to write and to offer their own backs.
- For students who are blind or have low vision, classmates write in very large print or read the notes aloud at the end.
- For students with fine motor challenges, allow them to draw an agreed-upon positive symbol instead of writing.
Learning goals
- Recognize classmates' positive qualities and contributions.
- Boost self-esteem and group cohesion.
- Help create a class climate built on respect.
Equipment for a class of 25
- sheets of paper: 25
- masking tape rolls: 2
- markers: 25
Teacher tip
This works best at the end of a unit or grading period, once the group knows each other. Quietly check a few sheets while students write and make sure everyone is getting notes.
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