Physical Education by Amie James
Spring 2014
“Physical Education is unique because fundamental motor skills are
seldom taught anywhere else in the school curriculum. Youngsters need to
learn how to speak the language of movement (movement concepts) and be able to tie movement to vocabulary (movement themes).”(p.309)
Pangrazi,
R. (2007). Dynamic physical education for elementary school children
(15th ed.). San Francisco, CA: Pearson Education Inc.
SPRING WRAP-UP
It is hard to believe another school year is about to end. It has been a pleasure teaching, learning and growing with your children. It is always sad when one year ends but exciting in the fall for new beginnings.
We have been extremely busy this spring. Our main focus was baseball (getting ready for Opening Day at Fenway), gymnastics, fitness testing, long jump rope and cooperative games.
Opening Day at Fenway K-3
We spent many weeks getting ready for Opening Day at Fenway. We learned how to throw, catch, bat and run the bases. We talked about and practiced game play. I would like to thank all the volunteers who came out and helped on this fun day. I would also like to thank PTO for all their help and support. The day would not be a success without everyone’s help.
THANK YOU!
GYMNASTICS K-3
All classes participated in a gymnastics unit this spring. The children enjoyed the physical aspects of gymnastics, as they tumbled and performed stunts on various pieces of equipment. Benefits from gymnastics include:
Fitness and Body Control
Strength, Endurance and Determination
Flexibility, Coordination and Balance
Self-Esteem, Confidence and Overcoming Fears
Cognitive Benefits
All classes focused on the five themes of gymnastics (vaulting/weight transfer, swinging and climbing, balance, rolling and jumping). Each class we built on these themes, allowing the children to work within their own ability. During the unit we created sentences using our bodies. Ask your child about his/her sentence. The unit ended with a routine created and performed by each student either alone, with a partner or in a group. Every year I am amazed how great the performances are.
Presidential Youth Fitness Program adopts the
FITNESSGRAM® assessment to promote lifelong physical activity.
Fitness Testing 1-3
As stated in the fall, all second and third grade students in the district participated in the FITNESSGRAM assessment. The test measures muscular strength/endurance, aerobic capacity, and flexibility. Upon completion, students reviewed their scores and set a specific goal for improvement in the spring.
We have just finished the spring testing. All students are striving to be in the Healthy Fitness Zone. The FITNESSGRAM results should have come home in your child's backpack. Summer is a great time to work on and improve fitness levels.
First grade was introduced to the tests this spring for greater success in the fall.
Think Fit, Get Fit, Stay Fit!
“Physical
Education is not only one of the most important keys to a healthy body;
it is the basis of dynamic and creative intellectual activity.”
John F. Kennedy
A SPECIAL THANK YOU
I would like to thank the Bell School PTO for everything they do! You make our jobs a little bit easier!
