Protocol Overview and Instructions: 
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When students are totally stuck or in a rut while in the process of developing ideas related to the driving question, have them try addressing the anti-problem - the question that is the opposite of what they are exploring. By utilizing this simple technique your students will be able to generate some creative and unique insights and ideas.


Anti-Problem Protocol Instructions

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Educator Thoughts:
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In the Invasion Games unit, my upper elementary students use the Anti-Problem protocol to help develop solutions. I ask them the best way to LOSE this activity with their teams. There are about 4-5 different activities we play in this unit and after the first couple, I use this protocol to help them understand the strategies involved. The insights they create help influence how the last few activities are played and generate ideas to help them be successful in the activities.

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“Students can get pretty goofy with the ideas they come up with on how to play the game to lose and not be successful. It is cool to see them come together afterwards and realize what strategies work.”

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Student Quote:
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“I like thinking about ways NOT to play the game because it helps me understand better ways to play the games.”

Meet the Educator:

I have taught Health and Physical Education for 12 years in Grand Haven. For the last 6 years, I have taught  Young 5s-4th grade PE at Mary A. White Elementary and Rosy Mound. I graduated from Michigan State University with a Kinesiology degree and then went on to earn my Master’s in Educational Leadership from MSU as well.


     "I enjoy thinking outside of the box and giving my students unique experiences in PE. I intentionally try to stay away from traditional sports/activities and add something so that they remember what we do and why we do it. Incorporating PBL into my teaching was a no-brainer because it makes such an impactful experience for students and makes them think in ways they wouldn’t otherwise..."
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