Fishermen and Crayfish

By Team Poland, Marek, Anna and Daria

Environment:
Pool (deep)
Teaching style:
Directive (teacher centered)
Related aquatic skills:
Combining
Duration (min.):
15'-30'
Group size:
Pairs,Small group (<10),Big group (>10)
Task design:
Exercise

Goal

I CAN tow a person using buoyancy equipment.
I KNOW that direct contact with a drowning person is forbidden/dangerous/life-threatening.
I FEEL competent to give the item to a person who is drowning.

Success criteria

Catch all the “crayfish” and not get caught by them.

Environment/Space/Equipment

Deep water, swimming pool, open water.
Noodles or other suitable floating equipment that can be used - available for all the participants.

Group management

The task can be performed freely in small or larger groups in any water reservoir.
Instructor outside or inside the pool depending on participants' swimming skills.

Time/Duration/Schedule

The “crayfishes” can be placed further apart for children who swim better.
Approximately 15 minutes.

Pre-requisite

Basic swimming skills
For non-swimmers, it can be organized in shallow water.

Description

Two children ("fishermen") with noodles in their hands have to catch all the "crayfish" and bring them to the cage. The remaining children are "crayfish" and swim freely in the pool.  After approaching the "crayfish", the "fishermen" have to give them a noodle. After grabbing the noodle, the "fishermen" tow the "crayfish" to the cage. After entering the cage, the “crayfish” play free.
"Crayfish are very nice crustaceans but eagerly grab everything they want with their pincers. Therefore, when fishing for crayfish, it is worth using a device that allows you to catch the “crayfish” and not get caught by them."

If you would like to take part in this international project to share experiences, please contact us: project-alfac@univ-lille.fr