Update: First Few Weeks of P.E.

     It has been an exciting start to the new school year!  With this being my second year here at Blanchard, there are many students in my classes that I had last school year.  I love teaching all grades, as I get the chance to see the students grow and change from year to year.   One benefit of having students from last year is that they are aware of my expectations for class!  There are many things that I look for and consider important in P.E., but they all fall under a few general guidelines.  I expect students to: Be respectful (of themselves, peers, and staff), be safe, try their best, and have fun!  I always stress the importance of remembering that everyone has different skills/talents/abilities.  Our focus is on students improving their own individual fitness levels. 

     During the first few P.E. classes I like to plan activities that allow me to get to know the students that I haven’t had before.  I also like to plan team-building games so that we can discuss the importance of teamwork.  I tell each class that they are a team, and to have a fun and exciting year of P.E. we all need to work together.  It is fun to hear students talk about the teams that they watch and root for, and how important teamwork is in accomplishing their goals. 

     This year, I have introduced a new warm-up to students in grades 3-6.  When we have class in the gymnasium, we will spend 8-10 minutes warming up with “The PE Central Challenge”.  The challenge is designed to encourage students to practice a variety of motor skills, many of which are contained in our professions national standards (NASPE, 1995).  The challenge is not intended to be a one-time test, but rather an ongoing series of challenges that students can practice and improve upon.  We will be practicing our six challenges through the month of November. 

Our list of challenges can be found here: http://www.pecchallenge.org/challenges/challengelist.html

The challenge requirements have been modified based on grade level. 

     Grades 3-6 are currently in their Frisbee unit.  We take the time to practice holding, throwing, and catching the Frisbee.  We practice throwing and catching while on the run, defense, and target practice.  At the end of our unit, students in grades 4-6 will play ultimate Frisbee games.  In grade 3, we focus on the basics of ultimate Frisbee, and we play games with modified rules. 

     In grades K-2 we are focusing on the importance of safe self-space.  This is especially important when we are all moving throughout warm-ups and during any game play.  We are also working on our overhand and underhand throwing skills.  We have spent time practicing our throwing and catching with partners, and our games have been centered on these skills as well.  

I look forward to meeting with parents that will be attending open-house night next Tuesday!