Elementary School

Physical Education Program

This is a description of the elementary program (grades 1-5) for one quarter (November-January 2003-2004):

In November, we headed out to the field for “Capture the Flag”, track and field activities and soccer. In order to ensure the students of a well-balanced physical education program, activities alternated between large group games, individual sports, and team games. It was at this point that we began to discuss the concept of sportsmanship and behavior on the field during a game situation.

“Capture the Flag” is an all-time favorite with every grade. Members of each team must enter “enemy territory” to recover their flag. Other members elect to stay in their safe zone and guard the flag of the opposite team. This allows for individual choices within the game situation. It also creates a division of labor and requires that each student at one point becomes the official flag guard. Have your child explain the game to you, and ask them what role they like to play.

From this large group game, we then focused in on track and field which consisted of running, throwing and jumping events. The students warmed up by running laps around the field, followed by a stretch routine to lengthen their muscles and develop their flexibility. They ran the 50 and 100 meter dashes, as well as a team relay. Contests of hoop throwing for length and hoop rolling for time followed.

We then began work with the soccer ball, developing control of the ball by only using the feet. The students found many different ways of moving the ball and then shared their discoveries with their classmates. They then concentrated on ball dribbling. Next, partner groups were formed; the students found “partner ways” which included passing, goal shooting and tackling. Groups of four were then asked to make up a game by coming up with rules and deciding on a name for their game. We eventually played a “real” game of soccer.

On return to the Gymnasium, we began work with the large apparatus: mats and steps. During the exploration section of the class, students found rocking, rolling and balancing ways which they demonstrated to their classmates. They followed the “Show and Try” process which allowed maximum movement and creativity. Patterns were then developed which included somersaults, cartwheels, log rolls, barrel rolls, handstands, shoulder stands, and handstands. After that, partner groups were formed and routines performed for the class. We then added larger apparatus such as the Swedish box, climbing ropes, climbing wall, balance beam, spring-board, trampoline, and a variety of mats with different shapes. We followed the same sequence while adding hanging and swinging ways to their requirements.

On return from the winter holiday we have once again returned to a team sport, kickball, in preparation for Kaleidoscope, our special program in March. We are practicing throwing, catching, kicking, and rolling ways on our own, as well as with a partner, so that we are ready to become a fielder or a kicker during a game situation. We are learning how to run the bases, make outs and what is involved in being a good team member.

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