Question 12
No free choice is defined as when an adult tells a student “go join this game” or students are assigned to play certain games.
A score of 1 is when students are not allowed to join any activity that they want. They are assigned to play certain activities during the recess period.
A score of 2 is when students are not able to choose from all of the activities available at recess. For example, an adult may tell the student that they are only able to choose between soccer or kickball and they are not allowed to do anything else but one of those two options.
A score of 3 is when students are told by adults to participate in activities, but they have greater selection of activities to choose from.
A score of 4 is when students are allowed to play any activity that they want.
Below are four examples of how recess might be coordinated:
In the first video, children have no choice in their activity, the teacher has decided what kids will play. This should be scored a 1.
In the second video, students have choice between games, but it is very limited. This should be scored a 2.
In the third video, students can chose between two games, or walking around. While they are not forced to play, their choice is still limited. This should be scored a 3.
In the final video, children can chose from a wide range of games and activities, while also having the flexibility to make a choice outside of the established games. This should be scored a 4.