Kendama, a traditional Japanese ball skill game, has a history dating back to ancient times, with records indicating its presence in 16th century France and its introduction to Japan between 1420 and 1500. The modern kendama, as we know it today, with a small saucer added to the design, originated in Hatsukaichi, Japan, and saw a significant increase in production and popularity in the early 20th century. The Japan Kendama Association was founded in the 1970s to standardize the game for competitive use, leading to its growth as a competitive sport and its eventual spread worldwide, including to the West around the turn of the millennium.
Objectives
Motor: Students will be able to perform a big cup catch with a Kendama during the drill portion of the activity in ¾ trials when verbally prompted by the instructor.
Cognitive: The students will be able to explain one thing they learned from the session in terms of Kendama history and procedure to use the equipment in a classroom discussion, during the reflection portion of class, when verbally prompted by the instructor.
Affective: The students will develop an appreciation for the traditional Japanese past time by participating in Kendama activity with other students.
Skill Focus: Object control, balance
Equipment
Kendama
Activity Description
Start with a brief introduction to the history and cultural significance of Kendama in Japan.
Explain the objectives of the lesson, such as promoting mindfulness, improving hand-eye coordination, and fostering a growth mindset.
Demonstrate the basic grips and movements involved in playing Kendama. Teach students how to perform fundamental Kendama tricks, such as the "big cup," "small cup," and "base cup" catches. Allow students to practice the basic techniques under supervision. Then provide individual assistance and guidance to help students improve their skills.
Encourage students to set personal goals for mastering these tricks, promoting a growth mindset and perseverance.
Guide students in reflecting on how the game requires patience, focus, and emotional regulation.
Divide the class into groups for friendly Kendama challenges, such as "most consecutive catches" or "trick demonstrations."
After the challenges, facilitate a reflection session where students share their experiences, challenges faced, and strategies for improvement.
Lastly students will reflect and discuss the connection between playing Kendama and its history.
Modification
Challenge: Students can practice going around the world(Big cup🡪Small cup🡪Base cup). If students are confident in their skill, they can compete with another classmate to see who can do it faster.
Simplified: Students can utilize a makeshift Kendama with a bigger cup or ball. Students can practice their big cup catching if the other cups are difficult.
Seated Modification: Students can practice hand movements while seated.
