Outcomes

Students will learn the basic steps from the instructor in a directed approach, and from their peers in an indirect approach.

Once the students have the basics they will learn to link up their skills in a routine in an indirect approach.

Journal

Students will keep a journal throughout the skateboard unit.  In the journal students may make comments on their progression, write down questions they may have, draw art for art’s sake, write stories about their experience in the unit, create a routine they might practice, write down a mix of music they like to listen to while skateboarding, etc.  I like the idea of having a journal so that the students can express themselves.  I think that there is an expressive side to skateboarding outside of the physical activity, and is part of the skateboard culture (i.e. art, poetry, music, etc)

Useful resources

Segovia, P. and Heller, R. (2007). Skater Girl: A Girl’s Guide to Skateboarding. Berkley, CA: Ulysses Press.

This book teaches you everything from buying a complete board set-up and shoes to progressively learning to skateboard and catching up on the lingo.  All this is from a girl’s point of view.

Weir, L. (1977). Skateboards and Skateboarding: The Complete Beginner’s Guide. New York, NY: Simon and Schuster.

This is a little “old-school”, but the fundamentals are still there.  In fact, if it wasn’t for the boards in the photos it might be difficult to even tell that it was written in the mid-seventies.  It has great photos showing the basics of safety and tricks.  There is some history of the skateboard.

Wixon, Ben. (2009). Skateboarding – Instruction, Programming and Park Design. Windsor, ON: Human Kinetics.

This book provides a full skateboard curriculum guiding you through the planning and design process of an effective programme.  It also delves into the development of skateboard parks in your community including the construction, types, and management of the parks.  This is a very up to date book, and the author has many years of skateboarding experience in the Pacific Northwest of the US.

Ventura. (2003). Zero to Hero Skateboarding – The Basics Volume 1. Released July 22, 2003. United States.

Professional skateboard instructor Mike Ogas introduces you to the basics of skateboarding. With over 10 years of experience, Mike takes you through easy to follow instructions designed to make you the best skateboarder you can be