Lesson Plan

Play Nice, Score Big

Students will learn to spot and prevent rough play in soccer by identifying key sportsmanship behaviors and practicing respectful play through discussion and a sorting activity.

Teaching sportsmanship and safe play reduces injuries, promotes teamwork, and fosters a positive environment on and off the field.

Audience

Time

Approach

Materials

Prep

Prepare Materials

5 minutes

Step 1

Introduction to Sportsmanship

3 minutes

Step 2

Identify Rough Play

5 minutes

Step 3

Respectful Play Checklist Activity

5 minutes

Step 4

Closing and Pledge

2 minutes

Slide Deck

Play Nice, Score Big

Welcome students! Introduce the lesson title and get them excited about learning to play safely and fairly. Explain that today’s goal is to “Play Nice, Score Big!” on the soccer field.

Lesson Objectives

Read aloud the objectives. Emphasize that understanding rough vs. respectful play will keep everyone safe and make games more fun.

What Is Sportsmanship?

Show the [Sportsmanship Behaviors Chart](#sportsmanship-behaviors-chart). Point out examples like ‘Helping fallen teammates’ and ‘Encouraging others.’ Ask for student examples.

Identify Rough Play

Divide students into small groups and hand out the [Rough Play Scenario Cards](#rough-play-scenario-cards). Remind them to discuss and decide whether each is rough or respectful.

Respectful Play Checklist

Distribute the [Respectful Play Checklist](#respectful-play-checklist). Give students a minute to choose behaviors they promise to follow. Invite 2–3 volunteers to share.

Class Pledge

Lead the class in a simple pledge. Use the whistle or timer: when you blow it, students raise hands indicating they’re ready to commit.

Lesson Plan

Play Nice, Score Big

Audience

Time

Approach

Materials

Prep

Prepare Materials

Step 1

Introduction to Sportsmanship

Step 2

Identify Rough Play

Step 3

Respectful Play Checklist Activity

Step 4

Closing and Pledge

Slide Deck

Play Nice, Score Big

Lesson Objectives

What Is Sportsmanship?

Identify Rough Play

Respectful Play Checklist

Class Pledge

Worksheet

Activity

Worksheet

Play Nice, Score Big

Robbin Johnson-Perez