Physical Education
The Physical Education (P.E.) program is broken down into four developmental stages. Each stage uses lessons that provide students with an appropriate level of challenge to ensure growth in their personal skill development. Body management and listening skills are stressed in the first developmental stage (grades K-1), fundamental motor skills in the second (grades 1-2), introduction to tactical sport skills in the third (grades 3-5) and strategic game skills and appropriate fitness goals in the fourth (grades 6-8).
The importance of demonstrating effort, integrity, and sportsmanship is emphasized at every grade. Students are encouraged to develop an appreciation for team play, and to respect, value, and utilize the different strengths each player brings to the game. Reflecting on personal effort and giving “positive press” to others, in the form of compliments and encouraging feedback, are common practices. In the upper elementary and middle school grades, emphasis is also placed on thinking critically, and using a variety of increasingly advanced strategies and tactics to enhance performance.
Highlights of the program include:
Kindergarten
- » Follow safety and instruction guidelines
- » Play cooperatively with a partner, take turns
- » Move through space while maintaining control
First Grade
- » Apply behaviors that show readiness to participate safely
- » Take responsibility for own actions
- » Demonstrate awareness of basic fundamental movement skills
Second Grade
- » Participate in a variety of lead-up games where fundamental movement skills are practiced in combination
- » Develop stamina and resiliency
- » Understand personal strengths and challenges
Third Grade
- » Apply movement skills and concepts in a variety of small-sided games
- » Introduction to player responsibility
- » Build resiliency and fair play
Fourth Grade
- » Use simple tactical skills to enhance game performance
- » Accept and deliver technical tips
- » Develop positive coping strategies when dealing with game outcomes
Fifth Grade
- » Participate in a variety of traditional and modified sports
- » Understand the role of the individual in team play
- » Introduction to health and fitness routines
Sixth Grade
- » Apply a variety of game strategies in both traditional and nontraditional sports
- » Identify correct tactical skills in game situations
- » Develop health and fitness routines
Seventh Grade
- » Analyze personal performance (technical and tactical skills) to enhance game play
- » Accept various leadership and support roles within the structure of the game
- » Assess five components of fitness, develop individual goals and workout plan
Eighth Grade
- » Demonstrate ability to create successful game strategies
- » Understand progression, overload, and specificity as principles of exercise
- » Record, review and revise personal health and fitness goals