Physical Education
1) Be prepared to learn
Students should come to PE class prepared with a desire to learn something new. It might be the acquisition of a new skill or movement, or it might be the learning of a new idea or game principle. This is a simple expectation that sets the tone for the rest of the class. If at all possible, they should have the appropriate clothing and shoes for class so that they can perform at their best.
2) Have fun
Physical education should be a time for students to let loose, be active, and enjoy themselves. This does not mean that every minute of class needs to be filled with laughter and games, but it does mean that students should feel like they can relax and have fun while they are learning. When students are having fun, they are more likely to be engaged in the lesson and retain the information that they are learning. This expectation also goes hand-in-hand with the first one; if students are prepared for class and know what to expect, they are more likely to have fun.
3) Try your best
Physical education classes at school generally include a wide range of activities, skill building, and creative movement scenarios. Students arrive to class with varying levels of ability and expertise.
Fulfilling this expectation can be challenging because some students are more inclined to excel at physical activities than others. It's important to keep in mind that everyone has unique strengths and weaknesses, but also remember that everybody is capable of putting forth their best effort. Some students might need a little extra encouragement to try their best, and that is okay.
4) Be polite and respectful
Students need to be polite and respectful during a physical education class for several reasons. First, it's important to remember that everyone is there to learn and improve their skill and fitness levels. Second, being rude and disruptive can interfere with the learning process for everyone in the class. Third, it's simply more pleasant for everyone involved if everyone is behaving respectfully towards one another.
5) Help others and cooperate
A typical physical education class has many students with diverse backgrounds moving their bodies using various forms of equipment, sometimes in tight spaces. To ensure that everyone has a positive experience, students must be expected to help and cooperate. This might mean lending a hand when someone is having trouble with an activity, or it might mean being understanding if someone accidentally bumps into you. In addition to helping their classmates, students should also be willing to cooperate with the teacher's instructions and be willing to follow directions. This might involve working with a partner or group, following directions, or taking turns. If everyone cooperates, the class will run much smoother and everyone will be able to learn and have fun.
6) Attempt new things
Trying new things can be scary, but it is also exciting and fun. Students need to remember that they will not be good at everything that they try, but that's okay. The goal is to have fun and learn something new, not to be perfect. If students can keep an open mind and a positive attitude, they will be more likely to enjoy trying new things.
7) Demonstrate great sportsmanship
It's easy to get caught up in the heat of the game or activity and forget about good sportsmanship. But showing good sportsmanship is an important part of a physical education class for every student. Good sportsmanship includes being a good sport whether you win or lose, being a good role model for other students, and treating your classmates and the PE teacher with respect.
8) Pay attention to instruction
Paying attention in class can be difficult for some students. However, there are good reasons why students should make an effort to pay attention in physical education classes. Paying attention can help prevent injuries.
9) Move safely and in control
In classes with many students, it's especially important to be careful when running and jumping to avoid injury. There are several ways that students can learn to move safely and in control. First, they need to be aware of their bodies and how they move through space. Second, they need to be aware of the other people around them and how their movements can affect others. Finally, they need to be able to listen to and follow instructions from their teacher. By following these tips, students will be able to move safely and in control in class.
10) Leave with a smile
It is important that students enjoy and benefit from their PE class experiences. I expect that my students feel a sense of satisfaction that they learned something new or worked on improving their fitness level.