A large screen display in your PE space is one of the single best technology investments you can make. Whether it’s a projector, a TV mounted on a rolling cart, or a portable screen, having a large visual display transforms how you teach, demonstrate, and engage students.
Here are 10 practical ways to use a large screen display in your PE classes — plus tips on setup and equipment.
Watch: 10 Ways Explained
In this video, I walk through all 10 uses and show the actual setup at my school:
The 10 Uses
1. Video Demonstrations
Show technique videos, sport-specific skills, or slow-motion replays on the big screen. Students can see exactly what a skill looks like before attempting it — far more effective than verbal instructions alone. Research supports the use of video feedback in PE classrooms.
2. Live Video Feedback
Point a camera at the action area and display it on screen with a slight delay. Students perform a skill, then walk over to watch themselves. This “video delay” approach gives instant feedback without you having to record and replay manually. Tools like Replay It make this seamless.
3. Task Cards & Instructions
Display balance task cards from Balance It, exercise stations, or game instructions on the big screen. Students can see what to do from anywhere in the gym without crowding around a small device.
4. Fitness Test Norms & Results
During fitness testing sessions, display the normative data tables so students can immediately see how they rate. The Fitness Tests app looks great on a large screen.
5. Timers & Countdowns
Display large, visible timers for station rotations, fitness circuits, or timed activities. Students can pace themselves when they can see the clock from across the gym.
6. Warm-Up & Cool-Down Routines
Play follow-along warm-up videos or display stretch sequences. Apps like Move It are designed for this — brain break and warm-up activities that students follow on screen.
7. Scoreboards & Leaderboards
Display live scores during games, tournament brackets, or lap tracking leaderboards. This adds excitement and keeps students focused on performance goals.
8. Game Rules & Tactics
When introducing a new game, display the rules and court diagrams on screen. Students can reference them throughout the lesson without asking you to repeat instructions.
9. Student Presentations
Let students present their fitness plans, game designs, or sport analysis projects on the big screen. It brings a classroom-quality presentation experience into the gym.
10. Music & Atmosphere
Display a music playlist or video backdrop during fitness circuits. The visual element combined with music creates an energetic atmosphere that motivates students.
Equipment Recommendations
You don’t need an expensive setup. Here are the most practical options for PE spaces:
- Rolling TV cart + large TV: Most versatile option. Wheel it to wherever you need it and connect via HDMI or wireless casting.
- Portable projector: Great for larger spaces. Project onto a wall or pull-down screen.
- Apple TV or Chromecast: Wireless mirroring from your phone, tablet, or laptop to any display. Game-changing for PE teachers who move around.
- Outdoor option: A bright projector or large tablet on a stand works for outdoor lessons in shaded areas.
💡 Tip: An Apple TV plugged into a rolling TV cart is the setup I’ve used for years. AirPlay lets you mirror any iOS device wirelessly — perfect for PE where you’re always on your feet.
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