Positions 1: Where Do We Go? (Iplaysoccer)
#1 in iPlaySoccer Series
on Goodreads (1)
What’s inside...
The grass is wet and squishy, but Alex and his team are still excited for soccer practice because they're learning about playing different positions in a formation. This fully illustrated book is intended to help youth soccer players understand playing positions and the basics of 7 vs. 7 formations. iPlaySoccer! Books are instructional stories focused on advancing youth player development. The illustrated children's books teach foundational concepts and vocabulary in a fun way that allows children, parents, and coaches to develop together in the beautiful game. The series is not intended to replace the instruction of a coach or the learning derived from actual play. Rather, the purpose of these books is to assist the player in mastering concepts as the game becomes more complex. Besides, the focus of iPlaySoccer! is on teaching children how to think independently, while also maintaining a collective understanding of the team during competition. This is an essential skill that helps young players not only in sport, but also in life. Each title is not intended to supplant the instruction of a coach, or the time a child spends learning a sport by playing it. Rather, the authors' purpose is to assist young players with their comprehension of sport in a way that is engaging, inspiring, and empowering.
Discussion points
What are the different positions you noticed in the book, and which one would you like to try when playing soccer?
Why do you think each player has a specific role on the soccer team?
How do the players work together to reach their goal?
Can you think of a time when you worked with others as a team, just like in soccer?
What do you think makes soccer fun for the players in the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Show genuine interest in their answers, and if they express curiosity in a specific soccer position, consider exploring more about it together online or in other books.
Discuss the importance of teamwork both in sports and daily life, drawing parallels to the child's experiences at home or school.
Encourage your child to talk about their favorite part of the soccer game and why they like it, reinforcing their comprehension and emotional connection to the story.
After reading, consider playing a casual game of soccer to bring the book's lessons to life and create a memorable learning experience.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Cooperation
Explanation: The book highlights how players on a soccer team work together to achieve goals, demonstrating the importance of cooperation and coordination.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to collaborate with peers in group projects or sports, understanding that collective effort often leads to success.
Example Lesson: Understanding Roles and Responsibilities
Explanation: Each character in the book plays a specific position on the soccer field, teaching children that everyone has unique roles that contribute to the overall success of the team.
Real-World Application: This can help children grasp the concept of individual responsibilities in family chores or classroom duties, promoting accountability and discipline.
Example Lesson: Strategic Thinking
Explanation: The book showcases players making strategic moves and choices during a game, which underscores the value of thinking ahead and planning.
Real-World Application: Children can apply strategic thinking by planning their tasks, managing time for homework, and making thoughtful decisions in games and everyday situations.
Example Lesson: Physical Fitness and Health
Explanation: Through the active play of soccer, the book promotes physical activity and the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to participate in sports or physical activities, which supports physical health and develops motor skills.
Example Lesson: Respect and Sportsmanship
Explanation: Characters demonstrate respect towards teammates and opponents alike, emphasizing the spirit of sportsmanship.
Real-World Application: Teaches children to treat others with respect, both in competitive situations and in daily interactions, fostering a positive social environment.